London's top attractions are world-class, easily accessible on foot or public transport and should not be missed even if only time allows for a short visit.
Obviously Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament come to mind when thinking of London. Unfortunately the clock tower is not available to tour but a visit to the city just would not be complete without a photograph of the iconic edifices. For an extraordinary view cross Westminster Bridge to the Southbank to capture Big Ben on the bank of the river Thames. For a birds eye view of London jump on the London Eye while on the Southbank for a 30 minute encapsulated Ferris Wheel ride.
Royal attractions not to be missed include the Queen's London residence Buckingham Palace, available to tour in summer months, and the daily colorful Changing of the Guard Ceremony which transpires in front of the palace. Westminster Abbey is the final resting place for over 3,000 historical figures, the sight for all of England's coronations since 1066 and over a dozen royal weddings. Further along the Thames is St. Paul's Cathedral with its glorious dome and Whispering Gallery, built five times in the same location and known as the marriage venue of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. Just past St. Paul's is the notorious Tower of London, palace turned prison among many other uses.
Beyond the steps of the National Gallery, Nelson's Column stands in the middle of Trafalgar Square with his four guarding lions below. Crowds gather for more photographs and the view down Whitehall towards Big Ben. Covent Garden Piazza, an old public and covered fruit & veg market, is another assemble point for visitors for market shopping, street entertainers and dining options.
The Palace of Westminster
Westminster Palace, Old Palace Yard, SW1. Join line at St. Stephen's entrance
Iconic symbols of London...
20 Dean's Yard
Broad Sanctuary, SW1
Britain's National Shrine...
Buckingham Palace
At end of The Mall (on the road running from Trafalgar Sq.)
Her Majesty's Residence...
Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road
(Riverside Building County Hall)
Rotating aerial view of London...
St. Paul's Churchyard
St. Paul's Churchyard, EC4
Christopher Wren's Masterpiece...
Off Tower Bridge Approach
Tower Hill, EC3
Beefeaters and Crown Jewels...
West Carriage Drive
Largest of the royal parks...
Trafalgar Square
London's most famous statues...
Covent Garden
Covered Victorian marketplace and buzzing piazza...
Great Russell Street
Great Russell St., WC1
London's Top Historical Attraction...