Landmarks of London and their description. War rooms of Churchill. Greenwich Royal Observatory Royal Observatory
London - where to start? We have compiled a list of the most interesting sights in the city. Below you can read the stories of real travelers about these places.
Buckingham Palace
The center of attraction for tourists and just coming to London on business has always been Buckingham Palace ( Buckingham Palace). This greyish building behind bars with gilded coats of arms is the center of world politics, diplomacy, as well as the office and home of Queen Elizabeth II. We can say that Buckingham Palace is a symbol of Great Britain and the monarchy as a whole.
Greenwich
Greenwich Park in London is one of those places that not only a true lover of England, but every traveler should see. Since I consider myself both of those and others, Greenwich was on my list of must-see attractions, if not the first, then certainly in the top ten. Where is Greenwich Park located?
Hyde Park
This park is perhaps the main item on the must see list for most tourists. At first, just for this reason, I bypassed him and preferred more quiet parks in north London. To tell the truth, with close acquaintance with Hyde Park, I only confirmed my opinion that it is the most popular and noisy ... but there is some special charm in this.
london eye
When visiting London, someone likes to go to museums, someone admires historical sights, someone walks the streets and enters pubs. But almost all tourists do not disregard the famous Ferris wheel "London Eye" (London Eye). I did not break away from the general trend, having got to London.
National Gallery London
The National Gallery in London is a symbol not only of English, but also of world art. Perhaps not everyone is interested in painting, and someone may think that this museum is only for amateurs. That's what I once thought too.
Natural History Museum in London
National Museum natural history- this is not just a dusty cemetery of dinosaur bones, but a whole scientific institute, the Temple of Nature, as it is sometimes called. Before, I did not know this and went to the museum without much enthusiasm, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and presentation of the exhibits. By the way, it was my birthday then, and, perhaps, it was thanks to the Natural History Museum that my mood was lifted for the whole day!
British museum
The British Museum is the largest collection of antiquities in the UK! Undoubtedly, it is in itself the greatest monument of England during its colonial heyday. This place is a must-visit, not only because it is one of the most popular museums in the world (according to some reports, more than six million visitors annually), but also because many of the exhibits of the British Museum are known to you for sure, even if you were not aware of their presence. right here.
Piccadilly Circus
By the end of my first week in London, I found myself thinking that when I was in the center, no matter where I went, I still ended up in Piccadilly Circus. Yes, this is such a strange observation. And this is not a must-see historical landmark like Trafalgar Square with the National Gallery, but nevertheless road junction three major streets: Piccadilly Street, Regent Street and Shaftesbury Avenue.
Big Ben
Big Ben is a symbol of that London, where old women drink tea at five o'clock in the afternoon, and it always rains outside. Even for the thousandth time, when I look at this monumental tower, I feel awe! I even get the feeling that the queen at any moment can walk somewhere nearby in her crazy hat, because she also really likes to look at this typical London landscape.
Science Museum
You need to run to the London Science Museum in adolescence, when there is so much to learn and you are at a loss to think where to start. Unfortunately, I was a little late, but I still managed to appreciate the interesting presentation of scientific ideas and high-profile discoveries to the younger generation. Where is the Science Museum The Museum is located at Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 2DD.
Sherlock Holmes Museum
I don’t know about you, but all my childhood I was thrilled by Sherlock Holmes. After all, over the past fifty years, he has become a cult figure! The great detective fell in love with people so much that they extended his life by launching dozens of sensational film adaptations.
Mary-Ex
London, like any capital, and even as huge and famous as the capital of Great Britain, is famous for its skyscrapers. Many of them are rightfully considered real works of art, and some have become a symbol of the city in which they are located. One of these is, of course, the Mary-Ex skyscraper in London, which many call "The Gherkin" for its unusual shape.
albert hall
For me, the Albert Hall is a chic place where I would definitely go to the broadcast of Classic FM radio. Exquisite - that's the word to describe such concert hall! It always seemed to me that it was difficult to seep in there, but no, this is a completely accessible and democratic place.
Theater "Covent Garden"
Once I was lucky enough to get tickets for Madama Butterfly at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden (Royal Opera House, Covent Garden). To this day, I can't forget the sumptuous scenery and elegant foyer of the London Opera House. It was the real entrance to the high society.
Tower Bridge
What are the first attractions that come to mind for the average person when they hear the word "London"? I bet it's Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. It is about the latter that I would like to tell you more.
Kensington Palace
To the west of Buckingham Palace is Hyde Park, a huge and famous for its speakers, smoothly flowing into Kensington Gardens. The gardens are surprisingly quiet, peaceful and calm. There I always rest my soul, and no matter what business I am in the capital of Great Britain, every time I find time to look here.
Tower
As an impressionable person, the Tower both frightened me and beckoned me with its extraordinary and rich history. I got into it not on my very first visit to London. I have already seen these light brick walls during river walk along the Thames and somehow postponed her trip here.
Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum seems to me undeservedly deprived of attention. When it comes to museums in London, everyone often remembers the famous British Museum with a rich historical collection of various civilizations from Ancient Greece and Egypt to African tribes and American Indians; the London National Gallery with paintings by Rembrandt, Monet, Manet and other outstanding masters, as well as the high-tech Science Museum with interactive installations and the Natural Science Museum with stuffed predators and dinosaur skeletons. The Victoria and Albert Museum is not particularly favored by Russian tourists and it is very rarely included in the number of must-sees, but in vain - the world's largest collection of arts and crafts and design is collected here.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is just as popular a London landmark as the Tower, Big Ben or Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square. Every time I visit, I try, if not to go inside, then at least take a walk around it. amazing building. If you take your eyes off Big Ben, you will find a huge gray cathedral building nearby.
Museum of London
Museums that would cause my admiration and the desire to recommend them to everyone-everyone-everyone, I happened to visit quite a lot. The British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum amazed me with their richest collections of the cultural heritage of different nations, Lennusadam in Tallinn was remembered for its unique exhibits: an operating submarine and an icebreaker from the early 20th century that you can explore - what could be cooler? However, the museum where I wandered until closing and this was not enough for me, so far I have met only one - this is the Museum of London.
Kensington Gardens
London is not only old churches, beautiful palaces or futuristic city. London is also parks, both royal and ordinary. When I first came to this city, I was surprised how green it was, how many squares and parks flowing into each other, how many people running there or riding horses.
Little Venice in London
Little Venice is the perfect place to take a break from the bustle of the city of London. There are no noisy tourists, flashy signs or honking cars. Walking along the canals, you enjoy the smell of fresh grass, admire the boats moored along the shore and feel some special harmony.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square… This phrase is so familiar to everyone that it is simply impossible not to visit here upon arrival in London. I did not miss this architectural monument either. The monumental Nelson's Column in the center of the square, the famous stone lions, live pigeons - all this is already more of a part of postcard London, but no matter how the eye is blurred by textbook views, believe me, this place is worthy of your attention.
London is associated with a prim, refined aristocrat, arrogant and domineering. A brilliant city, which is the capital of a strong, wealthy state, where the world's financial markets are concentrated, and cannot be otherwise. The trail of a long dramatic, triumphant, sometimes tragic and bloody history is forever imprinted in monumental architectural structures, cultural and historical monuments. Among them there are very interesting places in London - the main symbols of England.
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A magnificent brick building, lined with colored limestone, 96 m high, is based on a reliable concrete foundation 15 m deep. The dials of the famous chimes (there are 4 of them) are assembled from vitreous opal (312 pieces), the edge of the disks is covered with gilding. Cast iron hands (2.7 meters long) and copper seconds hands (4.2 meters long) are visible from afar. The weight of the pendulum (300 kg) and clockwork (5 tons) is impressive. Big Ben is London's most accurate clock, striking every hour. Tourists can only view the tower from the outside, it is forbidden to climb inside.
Tower of London
The oldest historical and architectural monument of Great Britain - the Tower Fortress is interesting not only for its authentic appearance, but also for the versatility of its purpose. Built in the 11th century castle like fortification soon they began to use it as a prison for noble persons who had offended the king. Here, 7 people who were related to the royal court were executed, including the wives of Henry the 4th - A. Boleyn and K. Howard.
Sinister rumors and legends still circulate around the monumental structure. Every century the purpose of the castle changed: in addition to the prison, it housed a mint, a zoo, a mint, an arsenal, a royal treasury, an observatory. Today, the Tower, which has been preserved almost in its original form, is formally considered a royal residence where treasures are stored.
But along with this, the odious castle is a popular tourist attraction, where tours are conducted by law enforcement officers, dressed in strict Victorian uniforms on weekdays, and in elaborate Tudor costumes on holidays. Guardian robes are a kind of museum exhibits.
Visiting times: November-February (Tue-Sat, 09.00-16.30; Sun-Mon, 10.00-16.30, admission until 16.00).
March-October - the same, but until 17.30.
Entrance: adult – 25 €; students, people over 60, disabled people - 19.5 €.
Children - from 5 to 15 years old - 12 €. Buying online gives you a 15% discount.
london eye
This name, by analogy with the huge all-seeing eye, was given to a common park attraction - the Ferris wheel. But the London wheel impresses with its height - 135 meters and has surpassed many similar structures in the world in this. Such an extreme structure appeared thanks to the enthusiasm of the spouses-architects - J. Barfield and D. Marx, who took part in the competition dedicated to the meeting of the Millennium (2000) "The Millennium Building".
The competition jury rejected their project, but the architects infected with their idea found an investor. The installation of the attraction began in 1998. Huge parts of the structure were transported along the Thames by ferry, experienced specialists worked on their connection. According to official documents, the Ferris wheel as an experimental structure was supposed to function for 5 years.
But the extraordinary popularity of the attraction among Londoners and tourists "extended the life" of the "London Eye", making it a real "hit" in the entertainment industry. From 32 glass capsule cabins, accommodating 800 people at the same time, the entire magnificent panorama of the British capital is visible. Unforgettable sensations are experienced by those who risk climbing to such a height.
The wheel is open every day, 10.00 - 18.00.
Ticket price: adults – 21.5 €; children (from 4 to 15 years old) - 22 €.
Area Chinatown
The Asian name, which is not quite familiar to the ear of a European, did not appear in London from scratch - there is a Chinese microdistrict of Chinatown almost in the center of the city. It was formed as a tiny part of the not very prosperous district of Soho, in which all sorts of outcasts such as French Huguenots, Hong Kong Chinese and interned Italians initially settled.
Gradually, the settlement of strangers turned into a kind of exotic attraction with its own way of life, traditions and color. The Chinese do not live here permanently, they trade, work in various institutions. Today, in a small area where old English buildings have acquired an Asian look, where Chinese restaurants, shops and shops with exotic goods stretch in a continuous line, you can see a lot of interesting things.
Exciting shopping awaits you here: unique Tibetan herbs, unusual spices, vegetables, spices, exotic alcohol and other rarities are sold in local shops. In one of the restaurants you can try traditional dishes Chinese cuisine at fairly reasonable prices.
Zoo
The London Zoological Park, opened in 1928, is not just an entertainment and entertainment facility, but a major scientific center designed to study the animal world. The innovation of the organizers of the zoo in London is the opening of the world's first serpentarium, aquarium, insectarium and zoological corner for children. It is noteworthy that the huge zoo is maintained at the expense of the charity of individuals and organizations - so great is the need for this institution.
To see all the sections and pavilions here, to enjoy the landscape beauty of the park, you need to devote at least 3 hours to this. In 3 halls of the aquarium, numerous species of inhabitants of the seas and oceans are presented. In the serpentarium, you can see the most exotic reptiles, from tiny snakes to huge reptiles.
An amazing spectacle awaits everyone in the Gorilla House, built in Art Nouveau style. And the B.U.G.S. collection of tropical butterflies in incredible colors is amazing, as is the African bird safari section.
Open for visits: September-mid-February - from 10 am to 18 pm.
- 02-23. 02 – from 10.00 to 17.00
- 02-28. 03 – 10.00-17.30
- 03-07. 09 – 10.00-18.00
Thames Barrier
Such a pretty strange name has a wonderful coastal park, which is an excellent example of how you can ennoble the site of a polluting industry. This area of the royal docks, used for many years as a testing ground for the transportation of imported and exported raw materials, has become environmentally polluted in 130 years, so the London authorities turn the industrial zone into a “resting place” for citizens, “green lungs” of the capital.
The Thames Barrier is also a grandiose dam that blocks the river across and protects the city from floods. Opened in 2000, a piece of landscape art has become a favorite vacation spot for Londoners. Spread over 22 acres of green lawns and ornamental lawns, flower beds, gravel pads with benches adorned the once unsightly area.
At the entrance to the Thames Barrier, 32 fountains sparkle with crystal jets. The Pavilion of Memory dedicated to the local residents who died during the 2nd World War was opened here. Figured hedges of yew, honeysuckle and other shrubs frame the walking paths. The popular park has children's and basketball courts, picturesque bridges, and picnic areas.
Open for visits - from 07.00 to dark.
The entrance is free.
Spencer House
A unique luxurious neoclassical palace built in the 18th century. under the Earl of the first generation Spencer, became especially popular with tourists after the death of Princess Diana. During her lifetime, she was also associated with old mansion, renting it out, as her ancestors had done since 1895. It was Spencer House, with its graceful appearance, that laid the foundation for neoclassical architecture in London.
The highest London nobility held various celebrations in the palace, which were attended by the most famous English aristocrats. After the damage caused during the war, the mansion was carefully restored, many valuables were returned, and it again began to be rented out to various clubs, offices and tourists.
They can walk around the palace, admire its charming appearance, velvet lawns and ornamental shrubs in front of it. Inside, admire the marble sculptures, golden palm trees wrapping around the columns, the magnificent interiors of the 11 rooms of the palace.
Excursions (groups up to 20 people) are held every Sunday, except January and August, from 10.30 to 17.45
The entrance fee is 12 pounds.
Marshalsea Prison
Anyone who has read Dickens' novel about the sad fate of Little Dorret is already familiar with the notorious Marshalsea Prison, where the Dickensian heroine was born and grew up. After all, this terrible place was well known to Dickens himself - his father was sitting here for debts to the baker. To free his father, to repay his debt, the teenage Dickens got a job at a wax factory 8 km from home. After working 10 hours, he returned back, and so every day.
Now from the gloomy apartment buildings of the prison (the prisoners lived in families) there is only one 4-meter wall, located next to the street. Borough High Street. It preserved 2 arched barred openings that served as prison gates. The wall, covered in places with moss and ivy of "oblivion", recalls the harsh customs of the past.
You can sit on a bench in the landscaped courtyard, indulge in the contemplation of the wall, then go to the nearby Anglican Church. She is also present in Dickens' novel and plays an important role in the fate of little Dorrit. It is no coincidence that there is an image of a girl on the stained-glass window of one of the church windows.
Theater "Coliseum"
The first production in the form of a variety show took place at London's largest theater, the Coliseum, on December 24, 1904, and since that time, famous performances have been regularly premiered on its stage. The theater building, designed by the venerable architect F. Matchen, looks great and is deservedly considered a masterpiece of architecture. Its façade is decorated with graceful columns and expressive sculptures; the top of the dome is crowned with a model of a globe with the name of the theatre.
The interiors captivate the viewer with lush beauty. Luxurious velvet curtain, gilded cupids on the walls, chic boxes are impressive. The huge hall can accommodate 2358 people. Here you can hear arias of the most famous classical operas staged by venerable directors and performed by the best opera singers.
The London public has the opportunity to listen to opera performances from almost all theaters in the world. Frequent viewers are members of the royal family, famous politicians and cultural figures. Despite the considerable age of the institution, everything inside is technologically equipped at the modern level. 2 restaurants are open, and if desired, spectators can bring champagne and snacks to the box.
Ticket price - from 99 pounds to 104 pounds.
Westminster Abbey
A true British shrine, the oldest church of St. Peter or Westminster Abbey is located in historical place London - Westminster. Since 1987 - this is an object from the list world heritage UNESCO. Within the walls of the monastery complex, a 1000-year history of Christianity and England is imprinted. The first temple, presumably, was erected in this place in the 7th century, when, according to legend, a local fisherman saw St. Peter in a dream.
Under King Edward the Confessor in the 11th century. the temple was rebuilt into a majestic monumental building, and here he was buried. It was here, where the coronation throne was preserved, that the coronation of English monarchs took place, royal weddings took place (16). The most famous of them are the wedding ceremonies of Prince Albert and Elizabeth I (1923) and the current Queen Elizabeth.
The wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton (2011), which was broadcast around the world, aroused great public interest. The ashes of the great personalities of Britain from among the ruling and church persons, scientists, poets and writers are buried within the walls of the abbey. A visit to the unique sanctuary leaves a deep impression.
Opening hours: Mon., Tue., Thu, Fri - 06.30-15.30.
Wednesday - 16.30-18.00; Sat - 09.30-13.30.
Ticket prices:
- Adult - 22 pounds; children (from 6 to 16 years old) - 9 pounds
- students, pensioners - 17 pounds; seventh (2 adults, 1 child) - 40 pounds
- group (up to 30 people): adults - 18 pounds, beneficiaries - 14 pounds, children - 7 pounds.
Madame Tussauds museum
The extravagant museum, opened in 1835, is located in the north of Westminster, the richest district of London. At the entrance, everyone is met by a small figure of an elderly lady in a black robe, with a white cap on her head - Madame Tussauds herself. Here, not only the number of wax copies (more than 400) is striking, but also their extraordinary resemblance to the prototypes. All celebrities look truly alive, and not like frozen mummies.
Talented followers of Tussauds captured their idols in relaxed poses. It is difficult to convey in words the strong impression of visiting an unusual museum. Technological innovations have greatly expanded the possibilities in the creation of wax sculptures. For example, the use of modern types of plastic, artificial leather allows you to make the most believable nails and eyes.
Now it is possible to make figures move and even speak, reacting to certain behavior of visitors. Particularly impressive is the new attraction-journey to the Middle Ages "The Spirit of London", when sightseers in miniature "taxi" ride through the halls that recreate past eras. Familiar characters make greeting gestures, the military salute.
Ticket price:
- Premium - 49 pounds.
- Standard - 29 lbs.
- Family (2 adults, 2 children) - 27 f.
- Group. children (5-11 years old) - 12.95 f.
- Group. Children (11-18 years old) - 18 f.
Saatchi Gallery
Shocking, outrageous, unusual, intriguing - such epithets can characterize the Museum of Contemporary Conceptual Art - the Saatchi Gallery. It was created by a collector and talented art dealer Charles Saatchi, who was passionate about works of art nouveau in painting, collecting paintings, installations, engravings and graphics by contemporary artists. His extraordinary collection, once exhibited to the public, became the basis big museum, which is now located in the premises of the former barracks, occupying 4 floors.
Exhibits of museum exhibitions are a constant subject of controversy, criticism, discussion and great interest of the public. Most of the inhabitants, many of the presented "masterpieces" are not very clear, but capture the imagination with their abstractness and innuendo. An unusual installation with a chic car bent in half, strung on a metal pipe, amazes and makes you think.
Busts of thinkers of the past with trident-pierced eyes, hearts, faces evoke a shudder and awaken thought. Abstract paintings, photos do not let go of their mystery for a long time. The gallery is a venue for various art workshops.
Opening hours: daily, from 10.00 to 18.00.
Entrance b / n, except for individual exposures.
Eltham Palace
When in the early 20th century the luxurious royal palace of Henry the 8th turned into almost ruins, the Courtauld couple decided to completely restore the “architectural treasure”. Two young progressive architects set to work, bringing together all the authentic fragments of the palace. On this basis, two magnificent buildings were erected, decorated with Tudor Gothic elements, neoclassical details of Italian and French Art Deco architecture.
Both buildings were combined into one complex with an elegant rotunda with a glass dome. Visitors really like the truly royal decoration of the palace, designed by famous designers of the 30s of the 20th century - the Swede Engstrom and the Italian Malacrid. It is impossible not to admire the lacquered panels made of expensive wood, the picturesque wall panels in the hall of the palace.
The main entrance is guarded by 2 people representing the ancient guards - a Roman and a Varangian. The ancient Greek motifs in the design of the dining room and the Renaissance decoration of the bathroom are impressive. Today, the architectural marvel, included in the national heritage of England, is given over to an elite hotel.
Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun - from 10.00-17.00 (01.04-04.11).
10.00-16.00 (05.11-17.02, 23.02-28.03 on Sun).
10.00-16.00 (18.02-22.02, Mon-Wed).
Ticket price: adults - 9.6 pounds, stud. and pence. after 60 l. - 8.6 pounds, children (from 5 to 15 years old) - 5.8 pounds.
Kensington Palace
A solid, strict architecture building, surrounded on 3 sides by a park - Kensington Palace, in fact, the cradle of English kings from the 17th century. The first owners and its creators were William of Orange and Mary II. Their portraits occupy a worthy place in the palace gallery. The illustrious Queen Victoria was born in it, from here she led the state and lived in a happy marriage with Prince Albert. A monument to Victoria by her daughter Louise is installed on the alley leading to the palace.
The famous Princess Diana lived in the old chambers for 16 years with her children and her husband. Last fact especially attracts tourists. Now the family of Prince William lives in one half of the palace, and excursions take place in the second (entrance from the park). On the right side of the alley leading to the palace, Diana's garden is laid out, fenced around the perimeter with covered floristic galleries, unusually cozy.
Its center is adorned with a picturesque pool with fountains, around which are densely growing white flowers - the White Garden, created by the palace gardeners on the 20th anniversary of Diana's death. Inside, a large-scale exhibition of Diana's wardrobe is organized in several halls.
Open for visits: 10.00-17.00 (Mon-Fri).
Borough Market
As you know, the British, being disciplined in everything, take a very responsible attitude to nutrition, attaching great importance to the quality of products. Therefore, in London, the oldest Borough food market (Boro Market), which has existed since the 12th century, is so in demand. Successfully developing enterprise in the 15th century. received a letter of trust from King Edward the 6th and subjugated all nearby markets. It is in Boro, on the street. Londoners rushed to Dorouqh Hiqh Street for fresh meat, cheese, vegetables, milk, creating huge traffic jams.
Therefore, the market was moved to Southwark Street, where it is still located. Buyers move along the bright stalls in a continuous stream, especially on the weekend - Saturday (on Sunday the market is closed). Perfect cleanliness reigns everywhere, all showcases are decorated with taste. Fruit and vegetable ruins - a picturesque still life, pleasing to the eye.
The choice of high-quality meat products is unusually wide: you can buy sausage of the most exotic type: from venison, wild boar, zebra, etc. The selection of seafood, cheeses, dairy products controlled by expert commissions is impressive. Borough Market has been the subject of several feature films.
Opening days: daily, except Sun.
london dungeon
Not far from Westminster Bridge, opposite Big Ben, there is a unique museum or, as it is also called, a “horror theater” with acting actors. A vast underground room under County Hall in 1975 was turned into a museum of medieval torture, which has become extremely popular with Londoners and tourists. Fans of horror films and thrillers especially like it here, and in general, lovers of tickling their nerves.
The rather gloomy atmosphere of the interiors, the possibilities of modern lighting made it possible to create an oppressive atmosphere of the real Middle Ages here. Against this background, a performance is “played out” under the motto “Fear is a funny thing” with the participation of actors and visitors involved in the performance. First, everyone ends up in the "Labyrinth of Lost Souls" (a room with mirrored walls), when visitors wander among their reflections, frightened by suddenly appearing here and there unexpectedly appearing characters of the Middle Ages.
Here you can meet with Henry the 8th, Jack the Ripper, the barber Todd, who kills his clients, etc. You will be “sentenced” to hang (Descent into the Underworld attraction), declaring state criminals.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri - 10.00-17.00 (Thu - from 11.00); Sat, Sun - 10.00-18.00.
Tickets: group. - 19.5 lbs. (adult), 14.95 lb. (children under 15).
An online ticket is 20% cheaper.
Sherlock Holmes Museum
The famous London detective is considered by many to be a real person, and not the fruit of the literary fiction of Conan Doyle - the image of Sherlock Holmes is so believable. Therefore, in 1990, it was on the street. Baker Street (the hero lived on it) in a 4-storey mansion N 239, a museum of a popular literary character was opened. The creators of the museum tried to recreate the situation here, exactly repeating the description of K. Doyle.
The entrance is guarded by a real policeman in 19th century outfit, the guides are dressed as Victorian maids. On the 1st floor there are ticket offices and a shop selling souvenirs of the corresponding theme. On the 2nd floor, the furnishings of Holmes' study and bedroom are reproduced with objects familiar to readers: laboratory flasks and test tubes, a detective's violin, Watson's revolver, letters and the famous pipe on the mantelpiece, etc.
Here you can sit in Sherlock's chair in front of a burning fireplace. 3rd floor - "Mrs. Hudson's" property. An exhibition of literary heroes of K.-Doyle made of wax, among which is the head of the notorious Baskerville dog, can be seen on the 4th floor.
Open for visits - every day 09.30-18.00, except Christmas.
Admission £15, children under 16 £10.
golden doe
Such beautiful name carries a small ship - the galleon of the famous pirate and admiral, who played an important role in the development of England, Francis Drake. On the ship "Pelican" he made an expedition around the globe (1577-80), and before entering the Strait of Magellan he gave the ship the name "Golden Doe" (the coat of arms of Halton's sponsor of the voyage). Today, a modern exact copy of the galleon (1973) stands on the pier in Southwark, being a kind of museum since 1996.
Until that time, the galleon, just like its legendary predecessor, conquered many ocean expanses (225 thousand km), passed Drake's route around the world. The ship "Golden Doe" was filmed in 3 feature films, it is used as an educational object in the organization of school excursions. Teenagers are thrilled to "become sailors" in interactive lessons about the history of English navigation.
Wellington Arch
A magnificent structure located near Green Park, the triumphal Arch of Wellington or Constitution, was erected at the direction of George VI to commemorate the British victories in the war against Napoleon. In its original form, the Arch was crowned with an 8.5-meter statue of the 1st Duke of Wellington, which was removed when the structure was moved to its current location. Now its top is decorated with a bronze quadriga, controlled by the "angel of peace".
Until 1992, a tiny police station was located inside the arch cavity, and since 1999, the premises of the arch have become a museum and an object of cultural and historical heritage. Expositions of 3 floors of the 1st half introduce a detailed "biography" of an architectural monument. The 2nd part began to serve as the ventilation shaft of the London Underground after its opening. Against the background of the surrounding greenery, the Wellington Arch looks very impressive.
Greenwich Observatory
The English village of Greenwich (now the district of London) is famous for the fact that it passes through Prime Meridian, from which the time of the geographical zones of the planet is counted. The Greenwich meridian is the starting point of reference for geographic longitudes, adopted in 1884. A stream of tourists rises here to visit the Greenwich Observatory, founded in 1675 under Charles II. It is located on the banks of the Thames, on a hill in Greenwich Park, from where you can see all of London.
Today, the old buildings of the observatory have been turned into the Museum of Astronomical and Navigational Devices and Instruments. The exhibits of the museum clearly reflect the history of the development of methods and means of measuring time, determining the location of objects using coordinates. The expositions "tell" about the ships that disappeared in the seas and oceans, when there was no temporal calculation and coordinate system. Modern achievements in this area are also reflected.
If you're into history and love looking at unusual, impressive buildings, then London is the perfect place for your next trip. This city easily falls in love with fans of contemporary art. In the British capital, you can find many interesting objects and places that, in literally words that breathe history. And this is not surprising, because London is a city founded by the Romans in the first century AD. A city with almost two thousand years of history.
The capital of the historically significant UK boasts many sights worth seeing. Let's now fast forward to the most famous of them:
The capital of Great Britain is famous bright combination of different styles. Firstly, the Queen of England lives there and many attractions are associated with the royal family. London with a population of ten million can rightfully be considered one of the largest cities in Europe. Tourists from all over the world come here for new impressions of old English architecture.
Trafalgar Square is considered the beating heart of London and the best starting point for exploring its central part. The place got its name after the Battle of Trafalgar on October 21, 1805. Today's view of Trafalgar Square is thanks to the architect Charles Barry, who once worked on the building of the British Parliament.
The square is also known as a favorite place for hundreds of pigeons, which the people of London have fed here since time immemorial. Feeding birds has been banned by law for several years now, as bird droppings have nothing to do with London attractions. Another well-known tradition on the square is the annual installation of a New Year tree brought from Oslo in gratitude for the help of the British for Norway during the Second World War.
Address: Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN.
The most famous and photogenic bridge in London is the Tower Bridge. It got its name from the two neo-gothic towers that serve as pillars. To move large ships along the Thames, the middle part of the bridge is raised.
The construction of the bridge began in 1886, with more than 400 workers working on its creation under the guidance of architect Horace Jones and John-Barry Wilf. At one time, the Tower Bridge was the most difficult drawbridge in the world, which was very difficult to manage. The original hydraulic equipment of the bridge can still be seen if you go on an excursion there. Most tourists, while walking along the bridge, being in a state of euphoria, give all their attention only to him, not paying attention to the surroundings.
If you walk a little further along the south bank to the end of the bridge, you can get to Shad Thames Street. Across the river at the other end of the bridge you can get to St. Catherine's Docks, which is a harbor with sails along with residential buildings.
Address: Tower Bridge Road.
Big Ben is a famous symbol of the city. This richly decorated tower belongs to the Houses of Parliament and is famous for its bell. The original, 16 kg bell was cast in 1856, then it cracked and was recast, weighing 13.8 tons, which it still is. Interesting is the fact that Big Ben is described as the heaviest bell in the UK, while it is the third after the bell in St. Paul's Cathedral and Liverpool Cathedral.
The Big Ben building was designed in the Victorian style. gothic style and today is the pride of the capital of England. Big Ben's clock was also considered the largest in the world at one time. They consisted of 312 parts of glass and the lower part of the dial had the inscription: Domine salvam fac reginam nostram Victoriam primam (from Latin means the Lord protects our Queen Victoria I). Watches are known for their reliability. Their accuracy was maintained despite the bombings during World War II.
Address: Elizabeth Tower, Houses of Parliament.
This attraction is located in the heart of London and is one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world. It was opened on December 31, 1999 and soon after its opening became the most visited attraction in the whole of the UK.
The attraction with a height of 135 meters is considered the highest in Europe. Until 2006, it even surpassed the Chinese Star of Nanchang. One revolution of the wheel around the axle lasts about 30 minutes. Interestingly, the wheel does not stop for passengers to board, because the traffic is so slow that passengers can disembark or, conversely, sit on the attraction slowly and comfortably. The London Eye moves at a speed of 26 cm per second. For comparison, the turtle moves twice as slowly.
Address: Lambeth, SE1 7PB.
Westminster Abbey is primarily a religious and historic building. For many centuries, the most important ceremonies in English history took place under its roof. One is in awe just looking at the majestic façade of the building.
The abbey also serves as a religious shrine and place of eternal rest for famous British figures and rulers. For example, Charles Darwin, father of nuclear physics Ernest Rutherford, writer Rudyard Kipling (author of the Jangle Book) and Charles Dickens rested here. The most famous grave belongs to Sir Isaac Newton. The new rise in popularity of the building was brought by the novel The Da Vinci Code, which was released in 2003 and at one time outraged the leaders of the Christian church around the world.
Address: 20 Deans Yd-Westminster.
Piccadilly Circus is located between Big Ben and Tower Bridge. This area can often be seen on postcards. Piccadilly is one of the busiest transport hubs in London. It was founded at the end of the 18th century by the architect Nash. Now this place is considered one of the main shopping areas. In the middle of the square is a metal statue holding a bow and arrows, which confuses tourists who confuse the statue with the god of love. In fact, the statue means "the angel of Christian mercy."
Address: London, W1J 9HS.
Great Britain is the cradle of democracy, and the country's parliament is housed in the building Palace of Westminster which proves its importance and significance. The building is located on the left bank of the Thames right in the city center, close to the Westminster Underground.
Of the more than a thousand rooms in the palace, the most important are the House of Lords and the House of Commons. In the first chamber, the traditional ceremony of the beginning of parliamentary year(State Opening of Parliament), where the solemn speech of the members of the government is delivered and thus the political season officially begins. The oldest part of the palace is Westminster Hall. He remembers countless ceremonial rites, such as the coronation of King George IV or the funeral of Winston Churchill.
Between the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, you can often see a camp of strikers who display posters with various slogans and put forward their demands to politicians.
Address: Westminster, SW1A 0AA.
For three centuries, Buckingham Palace was inhabited by the families of the British Queen. The building was built in 1703. Today, it is the official residence of the queen and her relatives. Unfortunately, the palace was closed to the public for a long time. However, before entering, you can catch a glimpse of the royal guards. On special occasions, significant events are announced from the balcony of the palace. Opposite the entrance is a luxurious fountain.
Today the palace is open to the public and awaits tourists during the summer. Sometimes you can even see Queen Elizabeth, it is worth noting that this palace is not her only residence.
Address: Road Buckingham Palace.
IN central area on the left bank of the Thames, a visit to the huge St. Paul's Church is not to be missed. This cathedral is one of the largest in Europe. The church is dedicated to the Apostle Paul at the beginning of the seventh century. The temple was built in the Renaissance and Baroque styles. Its huge dome is covered with lead.
Address: St. Paul's Churchyard, London- EC4M 8AD.
The Royal Albert Hall is one of the main attractions of the fashionable area of Kensington. The building has a characteristic oval shape with a glass dome and was built in the style of the Italian Renaissance. The underground station is not very close here, so it is best to get to Gloucester Road Station and South Kensington, and from there take a bus to the Albert Hall.
It is a great honor for everyone to sing on stage at the Royal Albert Hall, but not everyone is lucky. For example, in 1977, the final concert tour of Europe by the legendary Abby took place, whose concert they wished to attend. 3.5 million people. Later, Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Deep Purple and Bob Dylan appeared on this scene.
Kensington Gore, Kensington
Since Lady Diana's death in 1997, no one has lived in Kensington Palace. Only now, the newly-made Princess Kate, thanks to her marriage to Prince William, has “settled in” it, after which the reconstruction of the building began. Over the course of two years, about £12,000,000 for the restoration of the palace.
The palace gardens are ideal for picnics and sports. They can also be viewed with a guide. In June 2000, a platform in memory of Princess Diana was opened there.
Address: Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX.
Of course everyone should visit this place. The park is located in the very center of the metropolis, it is very large, and is rightfully considered one of the largest in the city. Its area is 1.4 sq. km. Big concerts are often organized there, such as the Rolling Stones in 1969 or the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2004.
In order to pass through the entire park, it is required a large number of time. But it's worth it, because in some places you can find interesting sights. One of them is Marble Arch, located in the northeastern part of the park.
In total, the park occupies more than 140 hectares of land.
Address: London - W2 2UH.
The City of London is the oldest part of London and is often referred to as square mile- "square mile". Only about 8000 inhabitants. The City of London is a kind of city within a city. It is best known as the international financial and business center of the capital of England. All the headquarters and major world banks are located here.
Address: Hartmann Road.
There is a place in England where time has stopped - this is Madame Tussauds. Where else can you meet Albert Einstein, Frank Sinatra or David Beckham in one place. Modern Museum was opened in 1884, since then it has been very popular not only among the British, but also among tourists around the world. Today the museum houses many figures of politicians, royal families, pop stars, actors and sportsmen. Thanks to its huge success, the museum has branches almost all over the world: Las Vegas, New York, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Shanghai, etc.
Address: Marylebone Road, Marylebone -NW1 5LR.
London is quite an old city. It was formed by the ancient Romans in 43 BC. e. and named Londilium. The city developed and grew rich. He gave the world famous mathematicians, physicists, engineers and other scientists. The British were ahead of many countries in the development of scientific thought. The first line of the London Underground opened in 1863. It was the first subway in the world. A wooden escalator still operates at one of the stations. The advanced solutions of English engineers in many areas are impressive.
The first thing that catches your eye - double-decker buses and red telephone boxes, a lot of cyclists. And the road traffic lives by some rules of its own, different from our world. Pleasantly impressive a large number of gardens and parks. Many museums and galleries open their doors for free.
Cricket and polo, golf, boxing - these are the most popular entertainments of the British. A rowing regatta on the Thames is a favorite sport.
London is full of beer pubs and cozy cafes. Here they traditionally eat oatmeal in the morning, they love pudding and meat baked in the oven.
The modern city seems to live in a real fairy tale. It is hard to imagine it without Buckingham Palace, Queen Elizabeth, princes, princesses. Entire crowds gather to watch the changing of the guard ceremony of the court guards. London is hard to imagine without Shakespeare, without Sherlock Holmes and Baker Street. London is Westminster Abbey, the Tower, which remembers the history of the city in great detail. London is everyone's favorite Beatles, Deep Purple, Sting.
Sights of London - PHOTO
The 900 year old fortress remembers almost the entire history of England. At various times, she had to be the residence of kings, a prison, a zoo. On its territory there was a mint and a treasury. Now it is a unique museum complex. In addition to medieval architecture, interiors ancient traditions and ceremonies have been preserved here, old legends and prophecies are still honored. And the court ravens, which have become a symbol of the castle, have been officially granted since the reign of Charles II. It is also said that in the halls of the castle you can meet the ghost of Anne Boleyn, or some other monarch, beheaded in the Tower.
Nearest hotels: Tower of London
St. Peter's Church in Westminster and St. Margaret's Church are strictly in the Gothic style. It took several centuries for the masterpiece of architectural thought to become what it is today. Thin, graceful towers, rushing up, amaze with their elegance and at the same time severity. The internal lace vaults make you forget that they are made of stone and by human hands. The abbey has beautiful stained-glass windows, many sculptures, jewelry, unique tapestries, works of art, and an organ. home Anglican Church closely associated with the royal court. Almost all the coronations of English monarchs have taken place here since 1066. The abbey keeps the history of all of England; the color of the English nation is buried here - from kings to scientists and poets.
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In the halls of the museum, you can easily meet a cat in uniform - this is a museum employee and keeper of rarities, of which there are countless. To see all the expositions, you need to spend 3-4 days, its area is 6 hectares. The museum has much to be proud of. The richest collection of Egyptian antiquities is located in London. The gallery stretches for almost 92 m. Here you can see the Rosetta stone, thanks to which it was possible to read ancient writings, a huge number of household items, luxury, a collection of mummies. The ancient history of Greece, Rome, a large collection of art objects from Africa and Asia is quite widely represented.
Hotels near British Museum
In August and September, the Royal Palace is open to tourists, and visiting the crowned person is an unforgettable personal holiday. The tale begins already with the royal gates and the guard ceremony. The halls of the palace invite you to see the Queen's personal collection, including works by Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Michelangelo, Vermeer, a collection of porcelain, antique furniture. There are 775 rooms in total. 8 pounds worth a tour of the royal stables, where you can see a golden carriage, a transparent carriage for weddings, and if you're lucky, then the royal horses.
Hotels and inns:
The Ferris wheel on the banks of the Thames is capable of lifting 800 people to a height of 135 meters at the same time. It was dubbed the London Eye because from here the whole city is in full view, and it is visible for 40 km around. Each capsule weighs 10 tons, is equipped with a seat, a 4D cinema. The creators have equipped the wheel with a unique lighting, and at night the light show will bring many pleasant moments.
Hotels near Ferris wheel
The Big Ben clock tower has become not only a symbol of London, but of the whole of Great Britain. It was built in 1859. The big bell behind the Big Ben clock gave the tower its name. However, in 2012 it was decided to rename the building in honor of Queen Elizabeth. The Clock Tower boasts the largest four-sided chiming clock in the world. Inside, at a height of 55 m, there is a complex clock mechanism. Craftsmen are constantly monitoring not only the gears - temperature, air pressure - everything is important when it comes to the accuracy of the mechanism. Sometimes a coin is placed on the pendulum to adjust the time and restore the deviations.
Nearest hotels: Big Ben
The bridge was commissioned in 1894. The opening ceremony was attended by Prince Edward of Wales and his wife. The advanced development for that time made it possible to raise the bridge in just 1 minute. Inside the towers, in addition to the stairs, there were elevators. This made it possible for residents to cross the Thames even during the passage of ships. Currently, expositions dedicated to the history of the bridge are open in the galleries of the bridge, in the towers you can see Victorian rooms, go down to the engine room of the bridge and look at the lifting mechanisms. Tower Bridge itself is a great observation deck. From here you can take great pictures. It is very beautiful at night in the garlands of illumination.
Hotels near Tower Bridge
Hyde Park has become famous as a venue for political rallies and protests. There officially exists the so-called Speakers' Corner. Anyone can try himself as a tribune, defending the most unusual ideas. Parades and processions, city holidays are held in the park. On the territory of the park there is an artificial lake in the form of a snake - Serpentine, a gallery of modern art. Horse trails have been broken. Sometimes an unusual cemetery is opened for tourists, where pets are buried.
Hotels near
In the center of the square stands a 40 m column of General Nelson. Cast lions stand around it, fountains beat. There are 4 pedestals on the sides of the square. Three have statues of great men of England. The fourth pedestal was first used only in 2005. On New Year's Eve they set here main tree country, which is always sent as a token of gratitude by the Norwegians for their help during the Second World War. Until recently, Trafalgar Square could be called Pigeon Square. There were up to 35 thousand birds here at the same time. Due to the fact that cleaning the area has become a big problem, the city authorities have officially banned the feeding and domestication of animals.
Hotels near Trafalgar Square
10. St. Paul's Cathedral
Under the dome of this cathedral there are three unusual galleries - stone, gold and whisper gallery. The latter is named so because of the acoustic effects. The dome itself repeats the top of St. Peter's Cathedral in Rome and is a kind of landmark of London. There are 17 bells in the church bell tower. Brass music concerts are often held here. The interior of the cathedral was changed in 1860. Parishioners established a special fund for the needs of the cathedral. Today, the interiors of the church impress with mosaic masterpieces, openwork lattices, and sculptures. Princess Diana and Prince Charles were married here.
Nearest hotels: Paul's Cathedral
