London is one of the most vibrant and cultured cities in the world and this year with the Olympic Games coming to Great Britain, there is more reason than ever to take stock of the capital city and view what it has to offer. Here are five of the best places to visit while you’re here.
1.) British Museum
Situated on Great Russell Street, The British Museum has been in existence since 1753 and offers the visitor more than two million years of human history to marvel at. Famous historic objects such as the Rosetta Stone and The Parthenon are viewable and there are daily talks and tours on offer. With the Cultural Olympiad in full swing, there is a special celebration of Shakespeare taking place between 19th July and 25th November, offering a unique perspective on London as a city seen through the eyes of the great man himself. Unmissable!
2.) National Gallery
The National Gallery is on Trafalgar Square and is a vibrant and exciting place to discover over two thousand Western European paintings from mediaeval times through to the twentieth century. Artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Botticelli, Gainsborough and Rembrandt have their works on display here and admission to see them all is completely free. Special events being held there this summer include a new exhibition featuring the works of Titian, from 11th July to September 23rd.
3.) The Tower of London
Probably the most iconic landmark in the city itself, seen on Tower Hill and a place containing hundreds of years of history, the Tower of London is a must see for anyone visiting. It has a grim reputation as being the home of torture and death in the city across the centuries, but it’s here you can see the Crown Jewels, learn about the Ravens kept here (and the many other animals, too) and also try your hand at siege weapons in the moat which surrounds the building! An opportunity not to be missed.
4.) The Globe Theatre
Continuing the theme of the Cultural Olympiad, this year sees The Globe Theatre holding a spectacular calendar of events. Over the summer months you can see productions of Twelfth Night, As You Like It, Hamlet, Henry V, The Taming Of The Shrew and many others all performed in the magical atmosphere of this historic place. You can also book to take a tour and find out the story behind Shakespeare’s Theatre. If theatre is your thing, pop down to Leicester Square and pick yourself up a cheap show ticket from the likes of LSBO or another theatre ticket reseller.
5.) The London Eye
See every day London from the best vantage point possible via The EDF London Eye, based on Westminster Hall Bridge. This year, for the first time you can see the city in 3D and 4D and experience what it’s like to have the elements thrown at you as you ride! It’s now well known as the top tourist attraction in London and the experience just got even better with the introduction of state of the art technology inside the pods which act as interactive touch screen guides to make your time inside even more exciting.
some great places here for sure – but surely you need to add Buckingham Palace