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Within City Walls (Clicking on red colored text will link to more info or videos or official sites)
Piccadilly Circus
Designed by John Nash as a junction, the Circus is the endpoint of the street called Piccadilly. The statue at the centre Eros represents the Angel of Christian Charity. It's how you tell people you’ve been here. You take a picture of cupid in front of the neon lights and everyone knows you’ve done London. Known for its neon displays, which mark the entrance to the city’s entertainment district. On the south is the Criterion Theatre, next to Lilly- white’s – a leading sporting- goods store. |
Chinatown
Ornate oriental archways in Gerrard Street mark the entrance to Chinatown, an area of London that has, since the 1950s, been the focus of the capital’s Chinese residents. Here you can shop at Chinese supermarkets, gift shops and martial arts suppliers and, on Sundays, browse the street stalls selling exotic vegetables. The Chinese New Year, celebrated in late January or early February, is a particular highlight. Chinatown abounds with excellent-value restaurants. |
Leicester Square
When this square was originally laid out in 1670 it was a grand and fashionable place to live. Celebrities of the 17th and 18th centuries to live here include Sir Isaac Newton and the painters Joshua Reynolds and William Hogarth. Today the square forms the heart of London’s West End entertainment district and houses the Empire and Art Deco Odeon cinemas. There is also a cut-price theatre ticket booth called “Tkts” on the southside of the square called “Tkts”. |
Covent Garden
A popular tourist destination at its heart is the capital’s first planned square, laid out in the 17th century by Inigo Jones and recently completed by the addition of the Royal Opera House. There is a local feel to surrounding streets and lanes, especially around Neal’s Yard and Endell Street. To the south of Covent Garden is another recently developed institution, Somerset House, which contains the Courtauld Institute of Art Gallery. Enter from the Embankment side. |
Bloomsbury / Fitzrovia
This is the brainy quarter of London. Dominated by two towering institutions, the British Museum and London University, and bolstered by the Inns of Court, it could hardly be otherwise. It is an area of elegant squares and Georgian faades, of libraries, bookshops and publishing houses. Most famously, the Bloomsbury Group, known for novelist Virginia Woolf lived here during the early decades. It's reputation as raffish place was enhanced by the characters who drank at the Fitzroy Tavern. |
Mayfair / St. James
Royalty shops here and the rest of us go to gaze. Many of the wonderful small shops around were established to serve the royal court at St James’s Palace. Piccadilly (fancy collars called “picadils”) divides St James’s to the south from Mayfair to the north, where top shops continue up Bond Street, Cork Street and Savile Row to Oxford Street. Home to the Royal Academy of Arts since 1868, Mayfair has long been one of the best addresses in town. Today most of London’s top-flight art galleries are here. |
Kensington / Knightsbridge
London’s gentry live here. Nannies push prams around Kensington Gardens, uniformed school children line up in Hans Crescent and the social “in-crowd” gossip in the Fifth-Floor Café at Harvey Nichols. Whatever time of year, nobody is without a tan. Harrods is the light beacon of the area; the solid rocks are the great museums established in South Kensington by Prince Albert, whose name is never far away. Kensington is the Royal Borough where Lady Diana roamed. |
Marylebone / Regent
Once a medieval village surrounded by fields and a pleasure garden, now a fashionable and elegant inner city area. In the 19th century, doctors used these spacious houses to see wealthy clients. Medical connection continues today in the discreet Harley Street. Behind Marylebone Road, encircled by John Nash’s terraces, is Regent’s Park where the residents’ tranquillity is ruffled only by the muezzin calling from the London Central Mosque and the bellowing of elephants in London Zoo. |
Soho and the West End
It's where everyone heads for a night out. Clubbers from outside London catch the last trains into the capital and head for its bars and music venues, knowing they won’t leave till dawn. Here are the great theatres of Shaftesbury Avenue & Charing Cross, the star-struck cinemas of Leicester Square and, at its heart, Soho, abuzz with activity as the night wears on. But it’s not all for the night owl, Trafalgar Square has the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery and free concerts (St Martin-in-the-Fields). |
The City
The ancient square mile, defined roughly by the Roman walls, is a curious mixture of streets and lanes with medieval names, state- of-the-art finance houses and no fewer than 38 churches, many of them, including St Paul’s Cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Don’t miss the City’s old markets: Smithfield still operates as a meat market, Leadenhall is in many ways more attractive than Covent Garden, while the former fish market of Billingsgate offers a great view of the once busy Pool. |
Big Ben
Big Ben is the nickname for the great bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, and is generally extended to refer to the clock. Actually The tower is known as St Stephens Tower. The 13-ton bell inside the clock is Big Ben. The clock tower holds the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world and is the third-tallest free-standing clock tower. A special light above the clock faces is also illuminated, letting the public know when parliament is in session. |
The Shard
London is in major showoff mode now, so it’s no surprise that its newest skyscraper, Renzo Piano’s Shard, has taken the crown as Europe’s tallest building soaring 1,016 feet into the air at a cost of $2.35 billion. A Shangri-La hotel will occupy 18 of the floors, floors 68 to 72 will open as a viewing gallery to the city below. The Shard is the capital's most dynamic single building. It focuses the attention of the entire world on London Bridge Quarter. A Vertical City, spend time exploring the building. |
Buckingham Palace
The official home of the Queen, the city’s most recognizable landmarks, where the changing of the Queen’s guard happens every day. Built as a town house for the first Duke of Buckingham in 1705. George IV commissioned John Nash to extend the house into a substantial palace, which was first occupied by Queen Victoria in 1837. The extensive front of the building was completed by Sir Aston Webb in 1913. Now home to the present Queen and the State Rooms are open to the public. Virtual View |
Downing Street
Official home and office of Britain’s Prime Minister is one of four surviving houses built in 1680 for Sir George Downing who went to America as a boy and returned to fight for the Parliamentarians in the Civil War. It contains State and Cabinet Room, where a group of 20 senior government ministers meets to formulate policy. Next door, No. 11, is the traditional residence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Entry inside has been closed to the public for security reasons since 1989. Virtual View. |
Westminster Abbey
A glorious example of Medieval architecture on a truly grand scale, this former Benedictine abbey church stands on the south side of Parliament Square Founded in the 11th century by Edward the Confessor, it survived the Reformation and continued as a place of royal ceremonials. Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation was held here in 1953 and Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997. Royals, deans, statesmen, poets and writers are all buried or remembered here. The choir sing at services at 5pm every weekday. |
Parliament Square
The spiritual and political heart of the city, the Palace of Westminster was built here a thousand years ago as a royal household, seat of government and abbey. The square was planned as part of the rebuilding programme following a fire that destroyed the Palace in 1834. Usually known as the Houses of Parliament, the new Palace of Westminster stands opposite Westminster Abbey. On the north side of the square, Parliament Street leads to Whitehall and No.10 Downing Street, |
Thames River
There's a lot more to the River Thames than London. From its source near the Cotswolds to Teddington lock, the River Thames is the perfect place to go boating, walking or fishing. Why not relax with a bite to eat with friends at one of the many pubs and restaurants along the River Thames, or make a short break of it staying in a riverside retreat. A visit to London is incomplete without a cruise along the Thames, either as an introduction to the many sights and scenes to be enjoyed during your stay. |
St Paul's Cathedral
Sir Wren’s Baroque masterpiece, St Paul’s still dominates the City skyline and has been the setting of many great ceremonial events. Completed in 1708, it was England’s first purpose-built Protestant cathedral, and has many similarities with St Peter’s notably in its enormous ornate dome. It has the largest swinging bell in Europe, Great Tom, strikes the hour and marks the death of royalty and senior churchmen. Cathedral has a reputation for music, and draws choristers from St Paul’s School. |
Trafalgar Square
Once the royal mews, now a hub of the West End and a venue for public rallies and events. From the top of a 50-m (165-ft) column, Admiral Lord Nelson, who famously defeated Napoleon’s fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, looks down Whitehall towards the Houses of Parliament. The column is guarded at its base by four huge lions – the work of Edwin Landseer. On the north side of the square is the National Gallery and the church of St-Martin-in-the-Fields. |
Cleopatra’s Needle
Quarried at Aswan around 1475 BC, and dates from the reign of Pharaoh Tuthmose III. It was erected at the city of Heliopolis, where hieroglyphs were added by Rameses II. Before the Needle was lowered into place, a time capsule was placed under the mason. Consisted of a set of British coins, 4 Bibles (different languages), railway timetable, some daily newspapers. The most intriguing memento, however, were a dozen photographic prints of the world’s most beautiful women! |
Hampton Court
A fine piece of Tudor architecture, it was begun by Henry VIII’s ally Cardinal Wolsey in 1514 and later given to the king. It was enlarged first by Henry and then by William and Mary, who employed Christopher Wren as architect. Its many rooms include a huge kitchen, a Renaissance Picture Gallery, the Chapel Royal and fine royal apartments. Set in 60 acres, the gardens, with their famous maze, are as much an attraction as the palace. The 15th century castle surrounded by 1000 acres of stunning parkland. |
Whitehall
Whitehall runs from Parliament Square to Trafalgar Square. Most of the Government Ministries are housed along the street, and numerous London landmarks can be seen along the route. Most people assume that Whitehall runs the entire distance between the squares, but it is actually two roads in one. The Cenotaph is the large grey monolith that stands in the middle of Whitehall. It was originally built to mark the dead of World War I, but it has grown to encompass every battle since 1918. |
Tower Bridge
London’s enduring landmark is a neo-gothic wonder. A masterly piece of civil engineer- ing, the bridge was built in 1894 with steam pumps to raise its two halves. Guided tours include views from the top. Enjoy stunning views of London from the high level walkways and continue your journey to the Victorian Engine Rooms to learn about the inner workings of the Most Famous Bridge in the World. Be sure to visit Tower Bridge Exhibition. You'll be surprised just how much happens around Tower Bridge. |
Hyde Park
One of the most popular features of this huge London park is its lake,the Serpentine, with boats for rent and a swimming area. Horses can be rented and ridden in the park. On Sundays at Speakers’ Corner, near Marble Arch, you can get up on a soapbox and address the crowds who gather there. Other top parks are St James’s Park, Kensington Gardens, Green Park, Regent’s Park, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park, Primrose Hill, Bushy Park, Grosvenor Square among others. |
St Katherine’s Dock
St. Katharine Docks is a vibrant Marina in the heart of historic London, next to Tower Bridge and The Tower of London. The first and most successful piece of modern Docklands development was this handsome dock beside Tower Bridge. The site suffered severe bomb damage during World War II and was re- furbished in the 1980s. The area is surrounded by pleasant apart- ments, shops and cafés, with further residential and commercial development planned. |
London Eye
The world’s largest observation wheel sits opposite the Houses of Parliament, and offers great views of the city. An amazing feat of engineering, this giant observation was built to celebrate the Millennium year, and has proved enormously popular. Its 32 enclosed capsules each hold 25 people and offer total visibility in all directions. A flight on the London Eye takes 30 minutes and, on a clear day, you can see up to 40 km (25 miles) across the capital and the south of England. |
Tower of London
Steeped in bloody history, the Tower has been a royal palace, fortress and prison, and is the home of the Crown Jewels. London’s great riverside fortress is usually remembered as a place of imprisonment, but it also has a more glorious past. Originally a moated fort, the White Tower was built for William I (the Conqueror) and begun around 1078. Enlarged by later monarchs it became home to the city arsenal, the Crown Jewels, a menagerie and the Royal Mint. |
Thames Flood Barrier
This huge barrier (the world's second-largest movable flood barrier) across the lower reaches of the Thames, just past Greenwich, was built in 1982 to prevent the dangerous combination of wind and tides from flooding the city. The Visitors’ Centre explains the problem, detailing a long history of flooding in London. The barrier is an impressive construction and is the worlds largest movable flood barrier, spanning 520 metres across the Thames at Woolwich. |
The Digital Fountain
A strange monument stands amid the hubbub of the crowds flocking to the new Westfield Stratford City shopping centre. As you close in you find hundreds of LCD screens pulsing, each one a pixel in an animated approximation of a waterfall. This is Westfield's very particular take on a water feature. The digital fountain, and a series of benches containing rills with similar watery animations, are the work of Jason Bruges Studio. The work is as much a theatrical production as it is a sculpture. |
Royal Observatory
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian of the World. It is also home to London's only planetarium, Harrison timekeepers (enjoy fascinating documentaries relating to time, the sun and outer space), Weller Astronomy Galleries (help explain the mysteries of the universe), the UK's largest refracting telescope and see the world-famous Greenwich Meridian Line, which provides a great opportunity for tourist photographs. |
Cutty Sark
Discover the extraordinary life of one of the world’s most famous ships. Last surviving tea clipper, fastest and greatest of her time, she is a living testimony to the bygone, glorious days of sail and, most importantly, a monument to those that lost their lives in the merchant service. Venture aboard and beneath one of the world’s most famous ships. Walk along the decks in the footsteps of the merchant seamen who sailed her over a century ago. Explore the hold where precious cargo was stored. |
National Geographic Store
Drawing on the National Geographic Society’s 120 year heritage of inspiring people to care about the planet, the store is set across three floors, featuring a photography gallery, an auditorium for talks and screenings, and a pinchos café. It also sells everything from one-of-a-kind furniture to high-tech outdoors clothing and children’s games. The vast three-floor store on Regents Street. The multicultural venue, regularly exciting hold events, exhibitions and talks, which are open to the public! |
Warwick Castle
With a history that dates back over 1,000 years, Warwick Castle take you back in time - to a world of sumptuous banquets, bloody battles and royal splendour. Enter over the footbridge and explore the castles ramparts, towers and gardens. Visit the waxwork displays of Madame Tussauds, where you can watch, and hear, the Earl of Warwick's preparations for battle. Feeling brave? Then take a look at the ghostly dungeons where prisoners were tortured or, relax with a stroll through the castles beautiful gardens. |
Leeds Castle
Described as the "loveliest castle in the world", once a Royal residence for six of Englands medieval queens, palace of Henry VIII, and a retreat for the rich and powerful. Set in a valley of the River Len in Maidstone, The Norman castle was built on two small islands, in the middle of a lake, and is surrounded by a vast estate. Explore the chapel, galleries, courtyards and banqueting hall before taking time to enjoy the setting and wildlife, which includes wildfowl and black swans. |
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. It has been the family home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years. It is an official residence of Her Majesty The Queen, whose standard flies from the Round Tower when she is in residence. The Queen spends most of her private weekends at Windsor and takes up official residence for a month over Easter (March to April), known as Easter Court. Windsor is still very much a working royal palace. |
The Queen's House
The 17th-century Queen’s House represents a turning point in English architecture. It was originally the home of Charles I's queen, Henrietta Maria. It now showcases the Museum's outstanding fine-art collection and provides a unique and beautiful venue for weddings, corporate and private events. Discover another layer to the stories of the Queen’s House through new interpretation guides. Explore the house in the company of queens and schoolboys and uncover the hidden histories of its rooms. |
British Museum
World's oldest museum contains a rich collection of treasures and artifacts from every corner of the globe. No fewer than 6 million items spanning 1.8 million years of world civilization. The shop sells reproduction artifacts. In 2000 the central courtyard was opened as a new public space, the Great Court. Holding one of the world’s most important collections of books and manuscripts, the Reading Room has been the workplace of some of London’s greatest writers. |
Natural History Museum
The enormous and varied collection here explores both the geology of the Earth and the incredible range of life it supports. There are some 70 million specimens in the Natural History Museum’s fascinating collections. Combines traditional displays with innovative, hands-on exhibits. With kid-pleasers such as the impressive dinosaur collection, it remains one of London’s most popular museums. Still a hot-house of research, the museum employs 300 scientists and librarians. |
Science Museum
Packed with exciting hands-on exhibits, it explores the fascinating world of science through centuries of scientific and technological development. It shows British inventiveness leading the world in the Industrial Revolution, with spinning looms and steam engines, navigation and early flight. It also has displays on contemporary science and cutting- edge technologies, with numerous interactive exhibits in the hi-tech Wellcome Wing. Also has an IMAX cinema. |
Imperial War Museum
It is well worth the effort to visit this museum, which documents the social effects of war as much as the technology involved in fighting it, with displays on food rationing, censorship, air-raid precautions and morale-boosting strategies. Concerned mainly with conflicts in the 20th century to the present, it has changing exhibitions and an excellent shop that will appeal to those with a nostalgia for wartime London. Covers conflicts, especially those involving Britain. |
Sherlock Holmes Museum
Take a camera when you visit here so you can have your picture taken sitting by the fire in the great detective’s front room, wearing a deerstalker hat and smoking a pipe. Great fun, brilliantly reconstructed with some excellent touches. A Victorian policeman stands guard outside, uniformed maids welcome you and, upstairs, wax dummies (including the villainous Moriarty) re-enact moments from Holmes’s most famous cases. Located at Baker Street. Garb a drink at the Sherlock Holmes Pub. |
HMS Belfast Naval Museum
The last of the big-gun armoured ships, HMS Belfast was built in 1938 and saw active service in World War II and Korea. In 1971 she was saved for the nation as an example of an early 20th-century British warship and opened as a museum. Visitors can tour the bridge, the huge engine rooms, the galley and the messdecks, where you get an idea of what life must have been like on board.HMS Belfast shows you what it was like to live and work on board a warship |
Tate Modern & Tate Britain
One of the world’s great contemporary art galleries. A boat service connects Tate Britain and Tate Modern. The best of British art is held at the Tate and works range from 1500 to the present. Look down- stream to see the home of British Intelligence (MI5). This large building, known as Thames House, is built inside a bug-proof “Faraday cage”. London art gallery houses the UK's collection of modern and contemporary art form. Exhibitions, films, conferences and talks. |
National Maritime Museum
Discover 500 years of Britain's encounter with the world at sea at the world's largest maritime museum. Explore the vast collection and enjoy free wifi in the comfort of the Compass Lounge. Hear the personal stories of our island nation in Voyagers. See the uniform Nelson was wearing when he was shot at the Battle of Trafalgar, fire a cannon and steer a ship into port. Set in the heart of the new Sammy Ofer Wing, Voyagers tells the story of Britain and the sea. |
London Film Museums
Formerly known as The Movieum of London, London Film Museum celebrates the silver screen. The history of British film studios is explored Covent Garden: this Museum takes a serious look at early photography and the moving image and is currently showing the 'Magnum on Set' exhibition. South Bank: At County Hall right next to the London Eye, this Museum houses the main collection and display's material from Batman to Star Wars. Fun for all. |
The Anaesthesia Museum
The Anaesthesia Museum is a medical museum with a collection containg over 2000 objects relating to the story of anaesthesia. The collections date from 1774 to the present day and provide a detailed insight into the history of medicine relating to anaesthesia and anaesthetic equipment as well as pain relief, resuscitation. Collection encompasses the entire history of anaesthesia, from Morton's demonstration of ether inhalation in 1846 to modern anaesthetic tech. |
Centre for the Magic Arts
Unique living museum of magic and magic arts. Meet the Magic Circle Events and seasonal shows. The whole history of magic and magicians from white rabbits to Houdini can be found in this fascinating museum. Accompanied by expert guides, you'll see the actual handcuffs used by Harry Houdini and the props used by HRH Prince Charles when he took his examination to become a member of The Inner Magic Circle. Learn how illusionist, Chung Ling Soo was shot dead. |
Old Operating Theatre
It's an Old Operating Theatre, Museum and Herb Garret. The Old Operating Theatre in London is the only 19th Century operating theatre in England. Come and explore the history of surgery and herbal medicine in this beautifully restored museum. The operating theatre is located in the top of an old church. Visitors can watch demonstrations of surgical techniques from the past and explore the herb garret, where herbs were dried and stored for the hospital's apothecary. |
Sea Life Aquarium
London boasts the largest aquarium in Europe, filled with 3,000 different types of marine life. Located on South Bank, it's home to many marine creatures. It has everything from ponds, rivers and tropical seas, to coral reefs, swamps and open-tank beaches. A journey along the Great Ocean Conveyor Belt shows them in all their glory. Seahorses, green turtles and zebra sharks are among the sea life. For interactive fun, Eco Pirates can climb aboard the Good Ship SOS. |
ZSL London Zoo & Aquarium
The world's oldest scientific zoo. Today it houses a collection of 755 species of animals, with 16,802 individuals, making it one of the largest collections in the United Kingdom. ZSL receives no state funding and relies on 'Fellows', 'Friends', 'Members', entrance fees and sponsorship to generate income. Separated into three different halls, which are home to different types of fish, the Aquarium is involved in many different conservation projects and breeding programmes. |
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo
One of Europe's largest wildlife conservation parks. Set in 600 acres of beautiful parkland on the Chiltern Hills, north of London, the zoo is home to more than 2,500 animals, many of which are endangered in the wild. There’s a full day out to be had in this 36-acre zoo. The zoo emphasizes its role in conservation and research work. Its cages and enclosures have won awards, such as the aviary designed by Lord Snowdon. Full of things to do, with a pet care centre, |
Legoland
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort is a theme park dedicated to children. An inspirational land where the kids are the hero. It's a family attraction like no other - where the fun never stops and imagination knows no bounds. And now you can stay over at the new LEGOLAND Windsor Resort Hotel right in the middle of the park! Over 55 interactive rides, live shows, building workshops, driving schools and attractions, all set in 150 acres of beautiful parkland, |
Nissan Innovation Station at O2
Future of motoring come alive and also help understand how new electric vehicles can change our way of life. There are virtual experiences, drive simulators, interactive games and an assortment of gadgets, with something to interest people of all ages. The A fun, new, interactive visitor experience based at The O2. The centre is designed to make the future of motoring come alive and to help visitors understand how electric vehicles can change the way people drive and the way we all live. |
Puppet Festival Fridays
A near-seaside experience with free outdoor puppet shows, sand boxes to play in and puppet-making. Drop-in family activities offering a traditional seaside experience. There are outdoor puppet shows, puppet making and T-shirt painting workshops (£5) and a chance to play in the sand. All ages. Performances are: Aug 10: ten-minute Chinese circus in miniature. The Dragon's Tale' by Hand to Mouth Theatre, 'Hippochondriac' walkabout puppet show, Suitcase Circus featuring the anarchic sock |
Treehouse Towers
Kew's outdoor play area is located outside the Climbers and Creepers play area, and offers ladders, rope bridges and three towers for children to clamber over. Further challenges are posed by giant swings, zip wires, scramble nets, slides and a mountaineering ramp, all geared up to allow children to learn about and appreciate trees. It has space for up to 300 kids to climb up ladders, clamber across rope bridges and slide their way down from the three towers. Features giant swings, zip wires, etc. |
The Urban Farm
One of London's largest community farms. Covering 29 acres it is an important educational resource and leisure facility for all the family. Visitors can enjoy a variety of colourful and unusual farm animals close-up, including 5 types of pigs, goats, cows, rabbits, ducks, geese, alpacas, rheas, Peacocks and lots more. Many of the visitors to the farm are urban residents who have little or no contact with a traditional farm or livestock. Offers an opportunity for close contact and interaction. |
London Trocadero
The entertainment complex in the heart of the West End is a magnet for children. Aside from its shops, restaurants and cinema, a Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, a bowling alley and an array of hi-tech video games and simulators that will keep them occupied for hours. Make your way down through this electronic jungle of video games and virtual- reality rides to dodgem cars, a race-track simulator and a bowling alley. Themed restaurants, bars, shops and cinemas fill up the space, as well as an HMV record store. |
Walk with Dinasaurs at O2
See dinosaurs walk the earth in this phenomenal live show at Wembley Arena. After a worldwide tour seen by over 7 million people in 206 cities, the stunning theatrical event is here! Internationally renowned designers have worked with scientists to create 20 life-size dinosaurs, including the terror of the ancient terrain, Tyrannosaurus-rex! Be amazed and thrilled as the greatest creatures ever to walk the earth return before your eyes. It’s a dazzling £10,000,000 arena spectacle. |
Cirque du Soleil
Although Cirque du Soleil is a Canadian entertainment company based in Montreal, its various shows and performances are held all over the world. Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour Opens on October 12, 2012. KOOZA Opens on January 05, 2013. With an energetic and astonishing set of acrobatic performers, the arrival of the new, Michael Jackson inspired show by Cirque du Soleil in London means that fans of physical theatre and the arts are likely to be queueing up around the block. |
Ice Age Live!
It's coming to London in a jaw-dropping new show in which all your favourite movie characters will be magically brought to life. Manny the Mammoth alone will measure 3.5m in height, whilst the evil Shadow will have a gigantic wingspan of 4m. Due to premiere at Wembley Arena in November 2012 before embarking on a five-year global tour. A completely original live entertainment spectacular. The first show of its kind to combine exceptional ice skating, aerial arts, puppetry and film, |
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
A whole world full of wonders, in the heart of London’s West End. Home to 700 peculiar, amazing and fun exhibits across 5 floors, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is the London attraction sure to excite, delight and thrill the whole family. With everything you can imagine and plenty more you can’t, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! London is certainly the place to visit and definitely a day out of the ordinary! This is the largest Ripley’s Believe It or Not!® attraction in the world. |
V & A Museum of Childhood
Children are invited to spend the day at this East End museum, which has one of the largest toy collections in the world, including dolls, teddies, puppets, games and children’s costumes. Activities are organized on weekends. Welcoming over 400,000 visitors through its doors every year, the V&A Museum of Childhood in London's Bethnal Green houses the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection of childhood-related objects and artefacts, spanning the 1600s to the present day. |
Madame Tussauds
This is where you can see everyone from Arnold Schwarzenegger to the Queen. A Spirit of London ride takes you on a whistle-stop tour of the city’s history. The famous Chamber of Horrors puts you face-to-face with London’s most infamous criminals and has the very guillotine that beheaded Queen Marie Antoinette in the French Revolution. Other sections of the exhibition include Premiere Night, which is devoted to the giants of the entertainment world. Get there early to avoid waiting. |
London Dungeon
The scariest experience in town combines history and horror to celebrate an “orgy of grisly entertainment”, with death, torture and violence at every turn. Follow in the bloody footsteps of the Victorian serial killer Jack the Ripper, witness medieval murders, the 17th-century Fire of London, or go to your own execution on Judgment Day. Not for the faint-hearted. Visit the London Dungeon, enjoy scary rides & terrifying live shows at the scariest attraction in London. |
O2 Arena
A state-of-the-art concert arena. It also includes a music club, cinema, exhibition space, piazzas, and bars. It is the largest single-roofed building in the world, measuring 3,280 feet in circumference, tall enough to accommodate Nelson’s Column standing upright, or the Eiffel Tower on its side. Enjoy spectacular 360 degree views of London from our viewing platform in the centre of the roof, before finishing with a thrilling descent back to base to complete your adventure. |
Globe Theatre
The Globe that stands on Bankside today was the brainchild of Sam Wanamaker – an American film actor and director. Watching a play at the Globe Theatre is akin to being dragged back in time. It is partly open to the weather and has a large standing area at the base of the stage . The three rows of seats up the sides are called the Twopenny Rooms (rows one and two) and Penny Gallery (top row). William Shakespeare is believed to have worked there between 1599 and 1611 and premiered worked there. |
Temple Church
Temple Church is one of the oldest buildings in London, dating back to 1185. It was built by the Knights Templar on the north shore of the Thames, on land granted by the King as their English headquarters. This is the church of Inner and Middle Temple, two of England’s four ancient societies of lawyers, the Inns of Court, all those who work in this oasis of calm know it as The Temple. Nearby is Temple Bar and Temple tube station. The church was featured in the The Da Vinci Code (novel and the film). Virtual |
Stadium Tours
Wembley Stadium Tour: Take the chance to relive some of sport's greatest moments from behind-the-scenes. Explore the changing rooms, the press room, and take in the view from the best seats. Emirates Stadium Tour: Walk in the footsteps of your Arsenal heroes. You'll be taken behind the scenes for a sitdown in the first team dressing room, before walking down the players' tunnel and onto the pitch. Some tours also take in the Directors Box and the Press Conference |
Hamleys
The self-styled finest toy shop in the world, is reputedly the world’s largest toy store. The five storeys of London’s largest toyshop contain just about anything a child might want, from traditional puppets and games to giant stuffed toys, models, arts and crafts supplies and the latest electronic gadgets. There are also many delights here for adults who haven’t let go of their childhood. Basement is full of computers, and the first is full of stuffed animals. |
Harrods
An upmarket department store located in Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, London’s most famous and exclusive department store is more of an event than a shop. Covering seven floors, it is full of extraordinary things to buy – from pianos to children’s racing cars – all with equally extraordinary prices. The children’s toy depart- ment is excellent, and the store’s food hall is rightly famous, with bars selling upmarket ice-cream, pizzas and countless other treats. |
Harvey Nichols
A leading international luxury fashion destination. Almost a parody of itself, this is where the glamorous shop. There’s wall- to-wall designer labels, an extravagant perfume and beauty department and stylish homeware. The 5th floor is for consuming, with food hall, sushi bar, the to-be-seen-in Fifth Floor restaurant. There are a total of eight floors of fashion, beauty and lifestyle collections with the Fifth Floor dedicated to Food and Restaurants. |
Camden Lock Flea Market
Once a timber yard, it's London’s largest flea market. Caters to a young, hip crowd of customers as well as a vital group of entrepreneurs and artists. Artists here work and sell from their own onsite studios and, in many cases, customers may watch artisans crafting the very items that are offered for sale. Alternative health practitioners abound here, offering everything from reflexology and Tui-Na to Shiatsu and mineral analysis. |
Les Misérables
"Les Miserables" is an epic tale of passion and destruction, set against the backdrop of a nation gripped by revolution. It tells the tale of Jean Valjean who befriends the kindly Bishop of Digne upon his release from prison, but repays his trust by stealing a pair of golden candlesticks. When the Bishop quickly forgives him to save him from the police, Jean vows to turn his life around... but does he? Queen’s Theatre can be found down Shaftesbury Avenue, in the heart of London’s West End. |
Matilda the Musical
Roald Dahl's much-loved children's story bursts onto the London stage in a brand new musical version. Matilda is a special little girl with an amazing imagination, but her mum and dad just think she's a nuisance. Her terrifying headmistress is equally dismissive. But then Matilda discovers she has a very special power and decides to teach the grown-ups a lesson. The Cambridge Theatre sits between Shaftesbury Avenue and Covent Garden. Seats around 1,200 people on three different levels. |
The Lion King
Set in the majesty of the Serengeti Plains, "The Lion King" tells the story of young cub Simba and his adventures in the jungle. Disney's award-winning musical is based on the Oscar winning movie, and follows his journey from wide-eyed cub to King of the Pridelands. The sets and huge puppet heads of the jungle animals are spectacular, and the songs by Elton John and Tim Rice are great. A real treat for your kids. The Lyceum Theatre is a two minute stroll from Covent Garden. It seats more than 2000 people. |
Shrek the Musical
Based on the original Oscar-winning movie from 2001, and brings everyone's favorite big green ogre to life on the London stage. In a faraway kingdom things get ugly when an ugly ogre, not a handsome prince, turns up to rescue the beautiful princess. And when you throw in a donkey who just can't shut up, a villain with a very short fuse, and a dozen other fairytale misfits, you've got the kind of tale that calls out for a real hero. Theatre Royal Drury Lane is London’s oldest theatre, dating all the way back to 1662. |
Phantom of the Opera
This haunting musical traces the tragic love story of a beautiful opera singer and a young composer shamed by his physical appearance into a shadowy existence beneath the majestic Opera Paris House. Cast subject to change - Unfortunately producers do not always keep us informed of cast changes! To celebrate 25 years, performances of The Phantom of the Opera will take place at the Royal Albert Hall for a while. The venue is Her Majesty's Theatre at Haymarket, SW1Y 4QL Tel: 0844 482 5158 Tube: Piccadilly Circus. |
Mamma Mia
Over 50 million people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel good show! Writer Catherine Johnson's sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise based on the songs of ABBA. Over 42 million people have seen the show, which has grossed $2 billion dollars worldwide since its 1999 debut. Tthis is one Broadway show where singing along (and dancing in the aisles) is encouraged. Fullon, high-energy to spare, with periodic breaks for ballads and drama. |
Wizard of Oz
Click your heels together and join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and her little dog Toto, as they journey through the magical land, helped and hindered by the Witches of Oz, to meet the Wizard and obtain their heart’s desires. Songs include: Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Follow the Yellow Brick Road, If I Only Had a Heart and We’re Off to See the Wizard. Music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E Y Harburg, with additional music and lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. The length of the show is 2hrs 45mins. |
Open Air Theatre
Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, in the City of Westminster, London, is a permanent venue with an annual sixteen-week summer season. It was founded in 1932 by Sydney Carroll and Robert Atkins. Surrounded entirely by parkland. It is completely uncovered; the only sheltered area being underneath the tiered auditorium, which houses one of the longest bars of any theatre in London — stretching the entire length of the seating. The bar serves full meals from before performances begin and remains open until midnight. |
Harry Potter Studio Tour
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Leavesden is a behind-the-scenes walking tour which immerses guests into the world of Harry Potter. Discover behind the scenes magic, original sets, props and costumes. See Hogwarts Great Hall, Dumbledore's magnificent office, Nimbus 2000, Knight Bus, Hagrid's motorbike, Diagon Alley streets, including Ollivanders Wand Shop, Gringotts Bank, Gryffindor boys dormitory, potions classroom and Hagrid's Hut and much more. |
Jack The Ripper Tour
London''s East End was a hotbed of crime and vice in the 19th century. During the autumn of 1888, terror struck when Jack the Ripper came out of the fog in dimly lit alleys just long enough to stalk and butcher his five victims. Coach drive through the dark side of London. See The Old Bailey, where the Elephant Man lived and where Braveheart was tortured. Walk in the foot steps of Jack the Ripper and inspect the murder sites to this day unsolved. |
The Beatles Tour
London was home to the Beatles from 1965 onwards. Visit the world famous Abbey road studios and a chance to walk across that famous pelican crossing. Then on to Triton studios in Soho where Paul McCartney wrote the infamous 'Yesterday' followed by the the London Palladium where the band's first live TV performance took place. Over 1.5 million people saw the performance across UK, the beginning of Beatle mania! Visit the Apple HQ which Brian Epstein opened in Saville Row |
The Lamb and Flag Pub
This old-world establishment tucked up an alley looks much as it did in Charles Dickens’ day. In the heart of Covent Garden, it can get crowded, during the summer drinkers spill outside into the quiet alley. The 17th-century poet John Dryden was severely beaten up outside the pub known as Bucket of Blood because of the bareknuckle fights held here. A favourite victorian pub is Dog and Duck as is George Inn, built in 1676, this is the only galleried coaching inn left in London. |
Dans Le Noir
For unique culinary adventure, Dans Le Noir sees diners sample French inspired flavours in complete darkness. Choose from colour coded categories which offer meat, fish and vegetarian options, as well as an innovative selection from ‘surprise menu’. Led through darkness by blind waiters, diners are encouraged to reevalute the notion of taste, and focus on the intense aromas, and vibrant explosions of flavour. Never compromising on culinary finesse, presents an enlightening experience in London‘s trendy Clerkenwell. |
Jameson Whiskey Experience
Set on 15 acres this is where the true heart of Irish whiskey is born. Take a journey through history and see the old kilns, mills and malting, water wheel, old warehouses. The Jameson Experience in Midleton is one of the top attractions in Cork Tours end with complimentary glass of Jameson whiskey and for the few lucky selected volunteers, there’s the chance to take part in a whiskey tasting. Taste Irish whiskey, enjoy a leisurely lunch and maybe pick up an exclusive gift in our Jameson gift store. |
Changing of the Guard
On the grounds of London's most famous residence, and one of its best recognized landmarks Buckingham Palace (overlooks two of London ‘s most central Royal Parks – St James’s and Green Park) stand tall The Palace guards, in their familiar red tunics and tall bearskin hats, are changed at 11am each morning (10am on Sundays, and alternate days in winter). The guards march to the Palace from the nearby Wellington Barracks. Time your visit to coincide with the Changing of the Guard. |
The Harrods Green Bus
Jump on board a beautifully restored 50 year old Vintage double-decker that depart from Harrods store every hour from 10am until 3pm, and begin a tour of London by taking in some of best-loved monuments, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and Westminster Abbey, where Prince William married Kate Middleton. Stop for photos here. Expert guide will tell you all you need to know about these famous sights and stop again for photos at Westminster Abbey. |
Pride Parade
Chosen as World Pride Parade destination, celebrations will be even bigger, better and louder. The venue is Trafalgar Square, from where celebrations will begin and finally conclude in Soho, the beating heart of London’s gay community. Stages will be set up, food and drink will flow and music will blare over loudspeakers as Pride Week comes to a frenzied end. For more than 100 years Brighton has been a gay haven. There’s even a ‘Gay’s the Word’ walking tour. |
Princess Diana
The Princess of Whales has many a tours that traces her life through the London sites she made famous. Starting from Diana Memorial Fountain, Kensington Palace, Althorp (her resting place), There is a moving exhibition dedicated to her. The displays include unique childhood cine footage, the famous bridal gown and over twenty of the Princess's most memorable outfits. Diana's grave is set on an island at the centre of a lake and visitors can walk along the banks opposite. |
Side Trips (Clicking on red colored text will link to more info or videos or official sites)
Stonehenge
Built nearly 5,000 years ago, Stonehenge is the most popular prehistoric monument in the world. Enter the stone circle itself and stand beside the mighty Sarsen rocks towering above. Understand the history of this ancient site, pointing out the altar, slaughter and heel stones, above which the sun rises dramatically on the summer solstice. There will be time to enjoy the peace, away from the crowds, as to experience Stonehenge at its most mystical and atmospheric best. |
Liverpool
Famed for its football teams, The Beatles and buzzing nightlife. Liverpool lies within The Historic County Boundaries of Merseyside. Visit Penny Lane, Stroll the Strawberry Fields, Hear the Beatles Story, go on a Magical Mystery Tour. This is a city with great cultural heritage and was awarded the title of European Capital of Culture 2008, with the famous Pier Head Waterfront being a UNESCO World Heritage site. Home to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. |
Lacock
A little known, picturesque village dating back to the Saxon era. Many of the beautiful buildings originally formed part of an extensive monastic complex and are now owned by The National Trust. So pretty is the village that it has provided the setting for many movies and television dramas including Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and more recently Harry Potter. Take a delightful walk before enjoying breakfast in The George Inn, a vintage English pub built in 1361. |
Nottingham
Visit Nottingham, home of Robin Hood, See world class sport, amazing live performances, excellent nightlife and cutting edge art in some outstanding venues. Get a taste for fine dining at the end of a hard day’s shopping. Browse the freshest local produce in traditional market towns. Hear legendary tales of Robin Hood and experience Sherwood Forest, stories of castles torn apart by civil war and the rumble of industry that built a city around Nottingham Lace. |
Yorkshire
England’s most interesting region. A bold statement, no doubt, but they’d expect nothing less in God’s Own Country, as Yorkshire folk half-jokingly refer to where they’re from, a place so bloody huge that it’s divided into four separate counties: South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire and the East Riding of Yorkshire. The last of these is the only geographical hangover from the far-off days of the Danelaw, the 9th-century Viking-governed region that roughly covered the same territory when the notion of ‘England’ as we know it didn’t even exist. the landscapes for one: from the dark moors and brooding hills to the dramatic cliffs of the coast. |
Oxford
The Victorian poet Matthew Arnold called Oxford ‘that sweet city with her dreaming spires’. For visitors, the superb architecture and the unique atmosphere of the more than three dozen colleges – synonymous with academic excellence – and their courtyards and gardens remain major attractions. The town dates back to the early 12th century and has been responsible for educating some 26 British prime ministers, including Margaret Thatcher, Tony Blair and David Cameron. Best sight: Pitt Rivers Museum - an Aladdin’s cave of explorers’ booty crammed with blowpipes, magic charms, voodoo dolls and shrunken heads from the Caribbean, Africa and the Pacific. |
Cotswolds
The Cotswolds represents an area that is forever England, remaining seemingly unchanged with the passing of time. Rolling landscapes, dry stone walls, perpendicular churches and sparkling clear streams fuse with tiny villages and hamlets with their charming limestone houses, tea shops and inns. Our full day tour of the Cotswolds begins in Burford, where the magnificent High Street, which slopes down to the River Windrush, holds every variety of Cotswold stone. There will be time to visit the small tea houses before heading south to Bibury. Grab a fabulous two course lunch in the Swan hotel, situated in the centre of Bibury, overlooking the River Coln. |
Stratford-upon-Avon
The birthplace of William Shakespeare,, and home to the theatres of the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford is a charming market town set in the heart of rural England. A delightful river winds its way through the town, past the beautiful Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare lies buried. There are some wonderful half-wooden buildings that date back to Shakespeare's time, including the famous cottage of Anne Hathaway, who married the great writer in 1582. You can even see the school Shakespeare attended. Visit Shakespeare's birthplace, before heading for lunch in a 15th century inn in the picturesque Cotswolds nearby. |
Bath
This delightful city of honey-coloured stone has always been renowned for its architecture, especially its fine Georgian terraces. Nowadays, though, it is celebrated in equal measure for its association with the novelist Jane Austen – not so much for her actual works but for the films based on them. Sometimes it seems the crowds just can’t get enough. Best sight: Roman Baths Museum – Ever since the Romans arrived in Bath, life has revolved around the three natural springs that bubble up near Bath Abbey. The 2000-year-old baths now form one of the best-preserved ancient Roman spas in the world. Best place to eat: Circus, |
Cornwall
With the longest stretch of continuous coastline in Britain, this is a land whose history is intricately bound up with the sea, and all around the county’s shores you’ll discover remnants of its maritime heritage. There are tiny fishing ports, old smuggler’s inns and sturdy granite breakwaters, not to mention countless beaches and sweeping bays once filled with pilchard boats, gill netters and seagoing schooners. From the secluded coves and tree-clad creeks along the county’s southern coast to the wild grandeur of the north coast cliffs, Cornwall is one of Britain’s most breathtakingly beautiful counties. |
Brighton
City by the sea caters to everyone. It offers in one outstretched hand atmospheric cafes, excellent restaurants, old-style beach seafood huts and good-for-a-laugh amusement pier. The town’s character essentially dates from the 1780s when the dissolute, music loving Prince Regent built his outrageous summer palace, the Royal Pavilion, here as a venue for lavish parties by the sea. And that charmingly seedy ‘great-place-for-a-dirty-weekend’ vibe lasted throughout the gang-ridden 1930s. The Royal Pavilion Palace is an extraordinary folly – Indian palace on the outside and over-the-top chinoiserie within. |
Kent Coast
Less than two hours from London by train, the coastline offers long stretches of clean, sandy beaches, secluded coves, and bustling seaside towns. From quirky independent shops to worthy eateries to stylish boutique hotels. A focus for visitors is the area from Whitstable to Ramsgate, taking in the colourful beach huts of Herne Bay and the traditional seaside resort of Broadstairs, with many beaches to be discovered along the way. Walkers can take off on a bracing cliff top ramble whilst exploring the 27-mile-long Viking Coastal Path, taking in smugglers haunts and churches. |