Top Ten Attractions in London

The most difficult thing about writing an article on the Top Ten places in London to visit is actually limiting the list to ten. For many who have never explored this elegant and historic city, some choices may seem obvious, while others might come as a surprise. You’ll find once in the great city there’s no end to the enjoyment and discovery. From museums to nightlife, ancient interest to contemporary charm, London is a destination guaranteed to provide memories for years to come.

Once you’re packed and the passport is ready, prepare your itinerary with accommodations at an affordable London hotel and enjoy your journey through one of the world’s best loved cities. We know there’s so much to see and do, but here are ten must-stops to put on your schedule.

• Buckingham Palace – What’s a stay in London without a stop at the official residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth? Don’t miss the famous changing of the guard ritual while you’re here, and if you come at the right time when the palace is open for tours (the queen, naturally, will be on holiday) take advantage of it.
• Cartoon Museum – True, we’re sure the Brits enjoyed their daily dose of Peanuts, but this cartoon museum holds an amazing collection of British cartoons from the last three hundred or so years. If you’re into British humor, this is one place to check out.
• Tower of London – Once a prison to princes, now one of the most popular sites in the city, the Tower hearkens back to England’s most dramatic times. You’ll learn about some of the tower’s more famous “residents,” and maybe you’ll see one of the ghosts purported to haunt the place!
• Double Decker Bus Tour – The famous double decker buses offer a bird’s eye view of the city, and passes are good for twenty-four hours, so you can hop off one and meet another one later in the day.
• Kensington Palace – Known as the last residence of Princess Diana, Kensington boasts beautiful gardens and stately architecture. This is a great place to visit for picture-taking opportunities.
• Piccadilly Circus – With all the neon flashing, you might think you’ve stepped into Times Square in NYC. Piccadilly is actually part of a popular shopping district in the city.
• Abbey Road – The studio bearing its name was immortalized by the Beatles, and to this day people continue to have their pictures taken crossing this famous street. As the studio is still actively used, there may not be tours available, but it’s still the place to see if you’re into the history of modern rock.
• Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre – Not the original, but a faithful reproduction of where the Bard’s words came to life. Take in comedy or tragedy during the season, and perhaps you’ll see some of Britain’s best known actors perform.
• Westminster Abbey – Monarchs are buried here, monarchs have been married here. You won’t find a more compelling site of British history than the Abbey.
• The BBC – News and programs by the British Broadcasting Corporation are seen all over the world, and when you come to London you can tour the “Beeb” yourself and watch the action!

Enjoy your stay in London. The trappings of old world charm and contemporary excitement are certain to make your stay memorable.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on European hotels and European travel.