Situated in the Thames Valley of South-East England, the bustling city of London is home to over 8 million people. Apart from being the capital of UK, London had been an important educational, business and cultural center for hundreds of years. The history of London dates back to Bronze Age, however, the city started thriving after the Romans withdrew in the 5th century. With its age old history, heavy dosage of literature, medieval architectures and a strong sense of culture, taking a trip to London is an absolute must when you are traveling to the UK. Apart from indulging in the various tourist attractions in London or sightseeing in London, people also flock over to this city during the winter holidays to take part in the extravagant Christmas or New Year celebrations in London. Here’s a list of the top 10 among the hundreds of must-do activities in London.
1. London Tower Bridge
Visiting the iconic London Bridge, the picture of which has been etched in our minds since our childhood, is an intricate part of sightseeing in London. The bridge is also an important reminder of London’s expansion during the era of Industrial Revolution.
2. Big Ben at the Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament is an extravagant and well-known structure by itself. However, the world famous clock named Big Ben is truly another one of the most iconic tourist attractions in London known across the globe. Taking a tour just to see this gigantic clock towering over the city is one of the must do activities in London.
3. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is perhaps the most famous palace in the whole world. Most of your sightseeing in London will consist of these type of iconic buildings and monuments which you have known by your heart. The official residence of Queen Elizabeth, the Buckingham Palace is another one of the most popular tourist attractions in London, offering tours of its staterooms and gardens.
4. Kensington Palace
Located near the Buckingham Palace, the Kensington Palace is another one of the tourist attractions in London, and it is open to public year-round. This stylish royal palace was the home of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, and a visit to the refurbished Palace is one of the must do activities in London.
5. Royal Parks of London
Once reserved as private hunting grounds for the Royal Family, these beautiful lands full of greenery and lakes are open for everyone to enjoy. Many of the eight Royal Parks are located in the Central London close to the Royal Palaces and monuments. Spending a relaxing day in one of them is one of the must do activities in London.
6. The London Eye
Riding the London Eye is another one of the must do activities in London. This 500 feet tall Ferris wheel is the most popular paid-for tourist attractions in London. The views of the whole city that you can get from the top is truly an incredible vista.
7. The London Dungeon
If you had enough of the beautiful, royal side of London, then visit the London Dungeon to learn about the 2000 years of London’s gruesome history. Torture was quite popular during the old ages, especially in Old England. A trip to “the world’s most chillingly famous horror attraction” is surely one of the must do activities in London.
8. Globe Theatre
The Globe Theatre is an integral part of London’s history and culture and is closely associated with William Shakespeare. A trip to this tourist attraction in London is a must for every Shakespeare lover.
9. St Paul’s Cathedral
Visiting the St Paul’s Cathedral to see its world famous dome must be a part of your sightseeing in London. You will get to see some of the most beautiful stone carvings and mosaics. Climb the Whispering Gallery or the Stone Gallery or the Golden Gallery to enjoy some breathtaking views of the city of London.
10. Trafalgar Square
Visiting the Trafalgar Square is one of the must do activities in London if you want to get a feel of what this great city really about. Considered as the center of London, it is a great place to people watch, see some famous monuments and just hang out for some time.