Destination
Things to see and do in London : Tourism and activities
10 addresses
#10 Downing Street
10 Downing St London SW1A 2AADescription:
WESTMINSTER. Look for the famous, yet understated black door on this notable street that bears the number "10." It's the residence and office of England's Prime Minister. It has been a beehive of activity through two World Wars as well as during countless celebrations and crises that have affected the British populace. It first became associated with the office of Prime Minister in 1730, and so far, 51 men and one woman serving as PM have called #10 their home at some point in their lives.
Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum
King Charles St Clive Steps, London SW1A 2AQ • 20-7930-6961Description:
ST. JAMES'S. Offering a glimpse of a city under siege, these underground chambers illustrate British efforts to thwart German bombs and hostilities during WWII. They're where Prime Minister Winston Churchill led the government, coordinated communications, and held out against Nazi aggressions. The rooms are laid out much as they were when the war ended, complete with furniture, maps, and technology. Churchill lived here at times, and a portion of the museum is devoted to his life and leadership. TUBE: Westminster or St. James's Park
Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum detail
Houses of Parliament
Parliament Sq London SW1A 0AA • 20-7219-4272Description:
WESTMINSTER. The impressive, Gothic-styled Houses of Parliament occupy the original site of the Palace of Westminster. Combined with their famous clock tower (commonly known as Big Ben), they're synonymous with London and a necessary stop. Although the building's exteriors are spectacular, it's even more interesting to head inside and see the Houses in action from the Visitor's Gallery particularly if you go when the Prime Minister is subjected to Question Time, when disorder is common. Overseas visitors may tour Paliament only during Summer Opening in August and September, but may attend debates during the session. TUBE: Westminster
Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
Parliament Sq London SW1A 0AA • 20-7219-4272Description:
WESTMINSTER. The impressive, Gothic-styled Houses of Parliament occupy the original site of the Palace of Westminster. Combined with their famous clock tower (commonly known as Big Ben, although that is actually the name of just the largest bell), they're synonymous with London and a necessary stop. Although the building's exteriors are spectacular, it's even more interesting to head inside and see the Houses in action from the Visitor's Gallery particularly if you go when the Prime Minister is subjected to Question Time, when disorder is common. Overseas visitors may tour Parliament only during Summer Opening in August and September. TUBE: Westminster
Houses of Parliament and Big Ben detail
London Eye
Westminster Bridge Rd London SE1 7PB • 87-0500-0600Description:
SOUTH BANK. London offers many places to catch great panoramas of the skyline and the Thames, but this attraction is one of the best. Run by British Airways, the Eye opened to great acclaim at the start of the new millennium; well-managed ticketing ensures that the wait is never more than a half-hour, despite the Eye's overwhelming popularity. The 30-minute guided "flight" reaches a peak of 450 feet (it's the tallest observation wheel in the world) and offers 360° views. During the day, guides point out all the sights within a 25-mile radius, giving folks a good introduction to the city's layout. At night, when London is lit up, the view is even more amazing. A must-see. If you purchase a Fast Track ticket in advance (on-line or via phone), you can skip the usually lengthy queues. TUBE: Waterloo
Dalí Universe
County Hall Gallery Riverside Bldg, London SE1 7PB • 20-7620-2720Description:
SOUTH BANK. Boasting more than 500 works, this permanent exhibition beautifully captures the curious, creative genius of the world-famous Spanish surrealist. Individual pieces are set up within a maze-like space, and as you browse, TVs and surround sound broadcast Dalí's movies as background ambience. Among the media you'll discover are sculpture, drawings, glass, watercolors and even furniture. County Hall is next to the London Eye. It's also just across Westminster Bridge from the Houses of Parliament. TUBE: Westminster
Florence Nightingale Museum
2 Lambeth Palace Rd St. Thomas Hospital, London SE1 • 20-7620-0374Description:
SOUTH BANK. Everyone knows the name Florence Nightingale, but few people are fully aware of the contributions she made to the medical community. This award-winning museum lays out her legacy in detail, showcasing her Nightingale Training School and her efforts to care for sick and dying soldiers. Notes, lanterns, and other personal memorabilia paint a full portrait of a fascinating woman with lasting impact. TUBE: Westminster
Florence Nightingale Museum detail
British Museum
Great Russell St London WC1 • 20-7323-8000Description:
BLOOMSBURY. One of London's top tourist attractions, this museum seeks to cover all areas of human knowledge under one roof and it succeeds on all counts. What began as a "cabinet of curiosities" in 1753 now includes galleries dedicated to ethnography, Egyptian monuments, and the arts of Africa, the Americas, and the Pacific. The Great Court, completed in 2000, incorporated additional gallery space, along with cafés and shops. Although it's impossible to cover the museum in one day, a 90-minute guided tour provides a brief glimpse of the museum's many treasures and can help you decide what to examine more closely when you return. TUBE: Holborn or Russell Square
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Rd London SW1A 1AA • 20-7766-7300Description:
ST. JAMES'S. Buckingham Palace is a sightseeing must. Queen Victoria moved into the vast mansion in 1837; since then, generations of royals have made the palace their home. Although wandering the grounds and taking photos of the elaborate exterior are always popular, the interior (some of which is open only during late July to September) is a treasure trove of art, furniture, sculpture and decorative goods. Walk around the corner to the Royal Mews to see the queen's coaches and horses. Admission is by timed ticket, available by phoning 20-7766-7300 or e-mailing bookinginfo@royalcollection.org.uk. TUBE: Victoria or Green Park or St. James's Park
Imperial War Museum London
Lambeth Rd London SE1 6HZ • 20-7416-5320Description:
SOUTH BANK. Occupying the Bethlehem Royal Hospital building (known more familiarly as "Bedlam" in past days), this museum traces 20th-century wars. Its graphic, compelling exhibits illustrate the impact of conflict on bystanders, participants, and innocents swept up in the waves of horror. Interactive exhibits place folks in WWI trenches and in Blitz-era bombings, and the Holocaust exhibit frequently elicits a visceral reaction from visitors. Artifacts and multi-media displays communicate the devastating impact of war, which can be overwhelming for children. However, the museum now offers a special exhibit that looks at war from a child's perspective and gives them a voice. TUBE: Lambeth North or Waterloo
Best of the City
Houses of Parliament
Parliament Sq London SW1A 0AA • 20-7219-4272Description:
WESTMINSTER. The impressive, Gothic-styled Houses of Parliament occupy the original site of the Palace of Westminster. Combined with their famous clock tower (commonly known as Big Ben), they're synonymous with London and a necessary stop. Although the building's exteriors are spectacular, it's even more interesting to head inside and see the Houses in action from the Visitor's Gallery particularly if you go when the Prime Minister is subjected to Question Time, when disorder is common. Overseas visitors may tour Paliament only during Summer Opening in August and September, but may attend debates during the session. TUBE: Westminster
London Eye
Westminster Bridge Rd London SE1 7PB • 87-0500-0600Description:
SOUTH BANK. London offers many places to catch great panoramas of the skyline and the Thames, but this attraction is one of the best. Run by British Airways, the Eye opened to great acclaim at the start of the new millennium; well-managed ticketing ensures that the wait is never more than a half-hour, despite the Eye's overwhelming popularity. The 30-minute guided "flight" reaches a peak of 450 feet (it's the tallest observation wheel in the world) and offers 360° views. During the day, guides point out all the sights within a 25-mile radius, giving folks a good introduction to the city's layout. At night, when London is lit up, the view is even more amazing. A must-see. If you purchase a Fast Track ticket in advance (on-line or via phone), you can skip the usually lengthy queues. TUBE: Waterloo
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Rd London SW1A 1AA • 20-7766-7300Description:
ST. JAMES'S. Buckingham Palace is a sightseeing must. Queen Victoria moved into the vast mansion in 1837; since then, generations of royals have made the palace their home. Although wandering the grounds and taking photos of the elaborate exterior are always popular, the interior (some of which is open only during late July to September) is a treasure trove of art, furniture, sculpture and decorative goods. Walk around the corner to the Royal Mews to see the queen's coaches and horses. Admission is by timed ticket, available by phoning 20-7766-7300 or e-mailing bookinginfo@royalcollection.org.uk. TUBE: Victoria or Green Park or St. James's Park
St. Paul's Cathedral
St. Paul's Churchyard Ludgate Hill, London EC4M 8AD • 20-7236-4128Description:
CITY. Sir Christopher Wren's architectural masterpiece should be at the top of any sightseeing list. The sprawling cathedral is notable for its artistry and design, but it also offers a fascinating glimpse of England's religious history. Plus, it affords one of the best views of the Thames and the London skyline from its dome although you must tackle 530 narrow steps to get there. The Whispering Gallery, the crypt, the treasury and the chapels surrounding the main transepts are fascinating as well. TUBE: St. Paul's
Tate Modern
25 Sumner St Bankside, London SE1 9TG • 20-7887-8888Description:
SOUTHWARK. After the Tate Modern opened its doors to rave reviews, it became London's latest not-to-be-missed museum. Boasting a spectacular selection of modern art ?; both well-known and undiscovered ?; the Tate divides its collection into Landscape/Matter/Environment, Still Life/Object, and Nude/Action/Body. Special talks and free guided tours are available, and the stunningly renovated facility is a work of modern art in itself. You shouldn't ?; and can't ?; miss displays in the massive Turbine Room, which have included three enormous towers by Louise Bourgeois. TUBE: Southwark
Hyde Park
Bayswater Rd and Park Ln, London W2 • 20-7298-2100Description:
PADDINGTON. Flush against Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park is probably London's most familiar and most popular park. It's more than a mile square and includes Serpentine Lake, Marble Arch, and the well-known (and still-used) Speaker's Corner. The British take pride in freedom of expression, and this park is where orators show up to speak their minds, usually to crowds of tourists. Popular recreational activities in Hyde Park include rollerblading, football (soccer), and lawn bowling. A must-see for London visitors. TUBE: Hyde Park Corner or Marble Arch
Tower of London
Tower Hill London EC3N 4AB • 870-750-4466Description:
CITY. The Tower of London draws tourists who are taking a growing interest in some of the more lurid, murderous aspects of London's history. This vast, imposing brick building has been the site of many bloody events, including the murder of future kings, incarceration of historical figures, and political beheadings. Kids love the stories told by Beefeater guides, and adults relish the Crown Jewels, although folks have to view them quickly, because visitors are hurried by to accommodate everyone. One of London's most interesting attractions, and also one of its most popular go early. TUBE: Tower Hill
Victoria & Albert Museum
Cromwell Rd London SW7 2RL • 20-7942-2000Description:
KENSINGTON. The "V&A South Kensington" occupies a gorgeous facility near Kensington Gardens and displays an extensive collection of decorative arts. In fact, it boasts more than 4 million objects in 146 galleries. Highlighting cultures from around the world, exhibits are organized by country, material and time period. Indian art is well-represented and awe-inspiring. Past exhibits have included a showcase of Art Nouveau sculptures and paintings from around the world. TUBE: South Kensington
Victoria & Albert Museum detail
Greenwich
south bank of the Thames 4 miles east of central London, Greenwich SE10 • 87-0608-2000Description:
GREENWICH. About four miles from downtown London, Greenwich is ideal for a day trip. Its attractions are legion and include the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, Queen's House, Millennium Dome, wonderful Greenwich Park, and the clipper Cutty Sark. In addition to straddling two time zones at the prime meridian (where Greenwich Mean Time is established), visitors enjoy plenty of charming pubs, restaurants, and shops. There's also a great market that'll keep you browsing for quite a while. For the best experience, travel to Greenwich on one of the Thames cruise boats. TUBE: Trains run to Greenwich from the Charing Cross, Waterloo, or London Bridge tube stations.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Kew Rd, south bank of Thames 6 miles from London, Kew TW9 3AB • 20-8940-1171Description:
RICHMOND. Spread across 300 acres, these gorgeous gardens are a year-round wonderland of sights, scents, and beauty. Horticultural specimens from around the world can be found either on the grounds or in a number of climate-controlled structures. You'll also find lakes, pathways, and other eye-catching landscape features. Tropical to arctic-adapted plants mesmerize visitors, who get a broad overview of the entire complex at the visitors center. A gift shop is available as well. TUBE: District line, Richmond train
Historic Sites
#10 Downing Street
10 Downing St London SW1A 2AADescription:
WESTMINSTER. Look for the famous, yet understated black door on this notable street that bears the number "10." It's the residence and office of England's Prime Minister. It has been a beehive of activity through two World Wars as well as during countless celebrations and crises that have affected the British populace. It first became associated with the office of Prime Minister in 1730, and so far, 51 men and one woman serving as PM have called #10 their home at some point in their lives.
Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum
King Charles St Clive Steps, London SW1A 2AQ • 20-7930-6961Description:
ST. JAMES'S. Offering a glimpse of a city under siege, these underground chambers illustrate British efforts to thwart German bombs and hostilities during WWII. They're where Prime Minister Winston Churchill led the government, coordinated communications, and held out against Nazi aggressions. The rooms are laid out much as they were when the war ended, complete with furniture, maps, and technology. Churchill lived here at times, and a portion of the museum is devoted to his life and leadership. TUBE: Westminster or St. James's Park
Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum detail
Houses of Parliament
Parliament Sq London SW1A 0AA • 20-7219-4272Description:
WESTMINSTER. The impressive, Gothic-styled Houses of Parliament occupy the original site of the Palace of Westminster. Combined with their famous clock tower (commonly known as Big Ben), they're synonymous with London and a necessary stop. Although the building's exteriors are spectacular, it's even more interesting to head inside and see the Houses in action from the Visitor's Gallery particularly if you go when the Prime Minister is subjected to Question Time, when disorder is common. Overseas visitors may tour Paliament only during Summer Opening in August and September, but may attend debates during the session. TUBE: Westminster
Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
Parliament Sq London SW1A 0AA • 20-7219-4272Description:
WESTMINSTER. The impressive, Gothic-styled Houses of Parliament occupy the original site of the Palace of Westminster. Combined with their famous clock tower (commonly known as Big Ben, although that is actually the name of just the largest bell), they're synonymous with London and a necessary stop. Although the building's exteriors are spectacular, it's even more interesting to head inside and see the Houses in action from the Visitor's Gallery particularly if you go when the Prime Minister is subjected to Question Time, when disorder is common. Overseas visitors may tour Parliament only during Summer Opening in August and September. TUBE: Westminster
Houses of Parliament and Big Ben detail
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Rd London SW1A 1AA • 20-7766-7300Description:
ST. JAMES'S. Buckingham Palace is a sightseeing must. Queen Victoria moved into the vast mansion in 1837; since then, generations of royals have made the palace their home. Although wandering the grounds and taking photos of the elaborate exterior are always popular, the interior (some of which is open only during late July to September) is a treasure trove of art, furniture, sculpture and decorative goods. Walk around the corner to the Royal Mews to see the queen's coaches and horses. Admission is by timed ticket, available by phoning 20-7766-7300 or e-mailing bookinginfo@royalcollection.org.uk. TUBE: Victoria or Green Park or St. James's Park
Marble Arch
Park Ln London W1Description:
HYDE PARK. With its three grand portals of Carrara marble, this impressive structure was designed by John Nash in 1828 as the entrance to Buckingham Palace. When the royal residence underwent renovations in 1851, the arch was made obsolete and was moved to become the new entrance to Hyde Park. These days, following re-routed roads, the arch sits on a traffic island, a somewhat ignominious setting, given its birth. It also sits in the vicinity of the notorious Tyburn Tree, where public executions were performed until the 18th century. Nearby, even today, is the Speakers' Corner, where free speech is given free license, often to the chagrin of passers-by. TUBE: Marble Arch
Charles Dickens Museum
48 Doughty St London WC1N 2LX • 20-7405-2127Description:
BLOOMSBURY. Enthusiasts of English literature find much to appreciate in this fine home, the only one of Charles Dickens' residences still remaining. "Oliver Twist" and "Nicholas Nickleby" were penned here, and visitors can examine photographs and other items left by the renowned author. Much of the house has been restored to its original appearance. TUBE: Chancery Lane
Albert Memorial
Kensington Gore Kensington Gardens, London SW7 • 20-7298-2100Description:
KENSINGTON. In 1851, Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, coordinated a Great Exhibition to highlight worldly innovation. Its success led him to propose a permanent hall for such events, but he died in 1861 before it met fruition. The inconsolable queen erected this extravagant monument in his memory. Designed by George Gilbert Scott, the Gothic-styled, medieval-inspired structure included allegorical figures representing Europe, Asia, Africa, and America. Fashioned of granite and marble, the memorial also features a 14-foot statue of the prince himself. Nearby sits Albert Hall, the domed structure that he originally envisioned. Completed in 1871, it hosts both classical and contemporary concerts. TUBE: South Kensington
Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace Gardens, London W8 4PX • 0844 462 777Description:
KENSINGTON. This Jacobean mansion, flanked on all sides by Kensington Gardens, was purchased by William and Mary in 1689. Queen Victoria lived here until she became queen, and, more recently, it was Princess Diana's home. Inside, 17th-century paintings and furnishings make for interesting viewing, and a permanent exhibit features the Princess's dresses. Concessions available for tickets online. TUBE: Queensway or High Street Kensington
Greenwich
south bank of the Thames 4 miles east of central London, Greenwich SE10 • 87-0608-2000Description:
GREENWICH. About four miles from downtown London, Greenwich is ideal for a day trip. Its attractions are legion and include the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, Queen's House, Millennium Dome, wonderful Greenwich Park, and the clipper Cutty Sark. In addition to straddling two time zones at the prime meridian (where Greenwich Mean Time is established), visitors enjoy plenty of charming pubs, restaurants, and shops. There's also a great market that'll keep you browsing for quite a while. For the best experience, travel to Greenwich on one of the Thames cruise boats. TUBE: Trains run to Greenwich from the Charing Cross, Waterloo, or London Bridge tube stations.
Museums
Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum
King Charles St Clive Steps, London SW1A 2AQ • 20-7930-6961Description:
ST. JAMES'S. Offering a glimpse of a city under siege, these underground chambers illustrate British efforts to thwart German bombs and hostilities during WWII. They're where Prime Minister Winston Churchill led the government, coordinated communications, and held out against Nazi aggressions. The rooms are laid out much as they were when the war ended, complete with furniture, maps, and technology. Churchill lived here at times, and a portion of the museum is devoted to his life and leadership. TUBE: Westminster or St. James's Park
Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum detail
Dalí Universe
County Hall Gallery Riverside Bldg, London SE1 7PB • 20-7620-2720Description:
SOUTH BANK. Boasting more than 500 works, this permanent exhibition beautifully captures the curious, creative genius of the world-famous Spanish surrealist. Individual pieces are set up within a maze-like space, and as you browse, TVs and surround sound broadcast Dalí's movies as background ambience. Among the media you'll discover are sculpture, drawings, glass, watercolors and even furniture. County Hall is next to the London Eye. It's also just across Westminster Bridge from the Houses of Parliament. TUBE: Westminster
Florence Nightingale Museum
2 Lambeth Palace Rd St. Thomas Hospital, London SE1 • 20-7620-0374Description:
SOUTH BANK. Everyone knows the name Florence Nightingale, but few people are fully aware of the contributions she made to the medical community. This award-winning museum lays out her legacy in detail, showcasing her Nightingale Training School and her efforts to care for sick and dying soldiers. Notes, lanterns, and other personal memorabilia paint a full portrait of a fascinating woman with lasting impact. TUBE: Westminster
Florence Nightingale Museum detail
British Museum
Great Russell St London WC1 • 20-7323-8000Description:
BLOOMSBURY. One of London's top tourist attractions, this museum seeks to cover all areas of human knowledge under one roof and it succeeds on all counts. What began as a "cabinet of curiosities" in 1753 now includes galleries dedicated to ethnography, Egyptian monuments, and the arts of Africa, the Americas, and the Pacific. The Great Court, completed in 2000, incorporated additional gallery space, along with cafés and shops. Although it's impossible to cover the museum in one day, a 90-minute guided tour provides a brief glimpse of the museum's many treasures and can help you decide what to examine more closely when you return. TUBE: Holborn or Russell Square
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Rd London SW1A 1AA • 20-7766-7300Description:
ST. JAMES'S. Buckingham Palace is a sightseeing must. Queen Victoria moved into the vast mansion in 1837; since then, generations of royals have made the palace their home. Although wandering the grounds and taking photos of the elaborate exterior are always popular, the interior (some of which is open only during late July to September) is a treasure trove of art, furniture, sculpture and decorative goods. Walk around the corner to the Royal Mews to see the queen's coaches and horses. Admission is by timed ticket, available by phoning 20-7766-7300 or e-mailing bookinginfo@royalcollection.org.uk. TUBE: Victoria or Green Park or St. James's Park
Imperial War Museum London
Lambeth Rd London SE1 6HZ • 20-7416-5320Description:
SOUTH BANK. Occupying the Bethlehem Royal Hospital building (known more familiarly as "Bedlam" in past days), this museum traces 20th-century wars. Its graphic, compelling exhibits illustrate the impact of conflict on bystanders, participants, and innocents swept up in the waves of horror. Interactive exhibits place folks in WWI trenches and in Blitz-era bombings, and the Holocaust exhibit frequently elicits a visceral reaction from visitors. Artifacts and multi-media displays communicate the devastating impact of war, which can be overwhelming for children. However, the museum now offers a special exhibit that looks at war from a child's perspective and gives them a voice. TUBE: Lambeth North or Waterloo
Imperial War Museum London detail
British Library
96 Euston Rd London NW1 • 20-7412-7332Description:
BLOOMSBURY. This institution is part gallery, part museum, and of course part library. With its fascinating exhibits, the library is a great place to learn about British history, especially political and literary history. Items such as the Magna Carta, which changed the world of politics in 1215, and the Gutenberg Bible, which in 1455 was the first book printed using Gutenberg's world-altering printing press, are awe-inspiring and well presented. Exhibitions on greats such as Oscar Wilde or on particular literary styles make the library a must for visitors interested in the written word. TUBE: King's Cross St. Pancras or Euston Square
Barbican Art Gallery
Silk St Barbican Centre, level 3, London EC2Y 8DS • 20-7638-8891Description:
CITY. Although it's said to occupy one of the world's ugliest buildings, this gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions dealing with historic and modern art. At times, it has caused a stir for opening such exhibits as the "Art of Star Wars," a fun, somewhat irreverent display that looked at the art associated with the groundbreaking films. The gallery presents a wide range of exhibits that concentrate on individual artists, genres, themes and the like. Past shows have focused on Oscar Wilde and the influence of rock and roll in fashion. Ticket concessions available online. TUBE: Barbican
London Dungeon
28-34 Tooley St London SE1 2SZ • 20-7403-7221Description:
SOUTHWARK. Intended to appeal to the animal nature of its visitors, this lurid attraction depicts some of the most grisly of human acts through the years. Bolstered by multimedia production values, the Dungeon showcases in realistic detail the horrors of London's Great Fire, its plagues, and its terrorizing by Jack the Ripper. Also included is a chance to journey on the "Boat Ride to Hell" and be immersed in the anxieties of death. Not recommended for young children or those with weak constitutions. Although the Dungeon is open daily, both opening and closing hours vary; please contact for specific hours. TUBE: London Bridge
Geffrye Museum
Kingsland Rd London E2 8EA • 20-7739-9893Description:
SHOREDITCH. British domestic history and interior design are laid out in a series of rooms at this intriguing museum. Intended to recreate living quarters from the 17th to 21st centuries, the Geffrye ably illustrates the aesthetics and creature comforts associated with each era. Furnishings, architectural details, decorative items, textiles, and artwork all contribute to the total effect. Outside of the 18th-century almshouses, which hold the vignettes, are period gardens that echo the rooms inside. Also available are a restaurant and gift shop. A library and archive is accessible via special request. TUBE: Liverpool Street and then bus or Old Street, followed by a somewhat lengthy walk
To see, to do in London
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