Famous places in London. The oldest zoo in the world. Flea market in Portobello

Many tourists try to visit the delightful, sophisticated and luxurious capital of Great Britain - London. This city, whose history has been formed over many centuries, impresses with a combination of restraint and scope. It harmoniously coexists magnificent modern facilities, stunning with their original design, and ancient architectural complexes, saturated with the spirit of conservatism and strict traditions.

The sights of London fascinate and enchant, make you admire their grandeur and beauty. Many of the most popular places in the capital of England have a rich history, diluted with many legends. The city makes an indelible impression and forever captivates the hearts of people who visit it. All the sights of London, the photos with the names of which can be seen in this article, are difficult to visit in one day, so it is better to go to this city for more long time to enjoy its beauty.

It is impossible to visit London and not visit the most famous building of the city - Tower Bridge, proudly towering over the Thames. The construction was built more than 130 years ago and still amazes with the grandeur of the idea. Despite the fact that the bridge is a drawbridge, pedestrians could always cross the river by walking along the second floor of the structure. Today this part of the bridge is used as an observation deck from which you can admire amazing landscapes. There are museums in the towers, which present many interesting exhibits.

The clock tower of the Palace of Westminster, often called Big Ben, is not only a symbol of London, but of the whole of Great Britain. The huge clock on its walls has been counting time for more than 157 years, as if symbolizing the calm, measured lifestyle of conservative Englishmen. Officially, the building is called the Elizabeth Tower. It houses the largest bell in the United Kingdom, which is called Big Ben. Tourists and residents of the capital prefer to call the tower itself that way.

For more than 950 years, the walls of the ancient fortress, the Tower of London, have been decorating the northern bank of the Thames, which is one of the oldest buildings in Great Britain. For a long history, the fortress was used as a palace, a storehouse for jewelry, an arsenal, and a mint. High-ranking and honorary prisoners served their sentences within its walls. This amazing building has been used as an observatory and even as a zoo. Today, the Tower of London is the historic center of the city, which attracts millions of tourists.

In the historic district of London, Westminster, above the River Thames, there is a magnificent old palace in which the history of the state is being created. The country's parliament sits within its walls, meetings are held with foreign statesmen. There are tragic events in the history of the Palace of Westminster. In 1834, the building was almost destroyed by a big fire. Its restoration took more than 20 years. In the near future, the restoration of the building is planned, which will have to spend about 3.5 billion pounds. An exact date for the start of work has not yet been determined.

Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham, the palace is now known throughout the world as the residence of the monarchs of Great Britain. It can be safely called a small separate town, which has its own hospital, post office, police and other institutions at the disposal of members of the royal family. On the main square of Buckingham Palace, a white marble pedestal rises, on which a gilded monument to Queen Victoria is placed.

The main collegiate church of Great Britain, which is located in Westminster, captivates with its grandeur. Made in gothic style, it causes admiration and a sense of reverence. In the delightful halls of Westminster Abbey, the coronation of the country's monarchs is held. Everyone can visit the church, attend exhibitions or concerts of classical music, which are often held here. It is interesting to visit the museum in Westminster Abbey, visit the corner of poets or admire the beauty of the chapter house.

When visiting London's sights, it is worth taking the time to Kensington Palace, which was the summer residence of royal people for a long time. At first, the building was owned by the Earl of Nottingham, for whom it was erected in the 17th century. But the palace was soon bought and refurbished by the king. At present, its owners are Prince William and his wife. Visiting Kensington Palace, you can admire not only the excellent architecture of the building, but also beautiful gardens that surround him.

Tourists staying in London do not miss the opportunity to visit the huge Greenwich Park, which is located on the outskirts of London. In this place you can visit many museums that tell about the development of maritime and astronomy in the UK. The Zero Meridian passes through the park, in connection with which an observatory was founded here in 1675, which was engaged in clarifying coordinates important for sailors.

Visiting the English Cathedral, tourists can not only see an excellent baroque building, but also visit the highest point in the city. This amazing place located on Ludgate Hill. Its construction, which started in 1675, took more than 33 years. The cathedral attracts tourists with its beautiful architecture. There are amazing galleries under the huge dome in the building. One of them strikes with its acoustics and is called whispering: it is worth pronouncing a word in a low voice at one end of the hall, and it will be clearly heard throughout the room. From the golden gallery offers a delightful view of the city. But in order to enjoy the panorama of London from a bird's eye view, you will have to conquer a rather steep staircase, consisting of 500 steps.

A very popular attraction in London is the British Museum. In terms of attendance, it is second only to the Louvre in Paris. Its countless exhibits attract more than 6.5 million tourists a year. For centuries, unique artifacts from numerous British colonies have been collected here. Today they are exhibited in various exhibition halls of the museum, of which there are more than a hundred. Here you can admire exhibits that are thousands of years old. They are considered the gems of the collection. The museum also has a huge library, which contains unique works, ancient Buddhist manuscripts and various manuscripts.

In the halls of the National Gallery in London, you can see many amazing works of art created by the greatest artists of all time and emerging talented masters. The collection of this art museum began to gather as early as 1824. Its first exposition consisted of only 38 paintings. She gave rise to the formation of the gallery. Today, thousands of works of art are presented here, which more than 6 million visitors annually wish to admire.

The most famous street in London got its name thanks to Robert Baker, who was the largest manufacturer and trader of piccadilly collars fashionable in the 17th century. He built a mansion here, which later became known as Piccadilly Hall. His example was followed by the noble persons of London, who erected luxurious houses on this street. Immediately, people from the lower strata of society, who quickly became rich, tried to build mansions for themselves. Today, the richest people on the planet acquire apartments on this street.

Tourists who have arrived in London do not miss the opportunity to visit the central Trafalgar Square of the city. It is especially beautiful here during the holidays: you can admire various processions and festivals. The main Christmas tree of Great Britain is also installed here. Previously, there were old stables on the site of the square. In 1820, they decided to establish a central square here and name it in honor of the naval battle that took place off Cape Trafalgard.

More than 200 years ago, the Frenchwoman and talented sculptor Marie Tussaud began traveling around Europe with a small collection of wax figures at that time. The number of exhibits increased over time, and a building on Baker Street was allocated for their location. The museum was very popular and required expansion. The city authorities decided to allocate a building located in Marylebone for a collection of wax figures. It is there that today you can admire a huge number of wax figures of the most famous people in the history of mankind.

You can see the amazing panorama of the city from the huge Ferris wheel, which is called the London Eye. It rises on the banks of the Thames and impresses with its size. The Ferris wheel is equipped with 32 egg-shaped booths. The capsules close tightly and are well ventilated. They are made of the most durable glass, which ensures the safety of people who decide to look at the beauty of London from a bird's eye view.

The museum of the world's most famous detective Sherlock Holmes is very popular with visitors and residents of London. Despite the fact that the character is fictional, the house described in the work of the famous English writer Arthur Conan Doyle was recreated to the smallest detail on Baker Street. In the museum you can see the rooms in which the main characters lived, admire their wax figures. In addition, the house in which the exposition is organized is of interest to tourists. Built in 1815, it is an architectural and historical value.

The modern symbol of the capital of Great Britain is the skyscraper Mercy Ex 30, which is popularly called the "London Gherkin" because of its bizarre shape. This building, designed by the talented architect Foster, is one of the most environmentally friendly skyscrapers. Thanks to an excellently thought-out design, 2 times less energy is spent on its needs than on other similar structures. Everyone can admire the beauty of the lower floors of this majestic structure or visit the popular restaurants located under the transparent dome of the skyscraper.

The most interesting place to visit is the Shard skyscraper, towering in the center of London. So that the building does not violate the unique architecture of the city, it was decided to create it from glass and metal. The skyscraper looks like a huge ice block, rushing to the heavenly heights, which determined its name. The most popular among tourists is the observation deck of the glass pyramid, from which you can see even remote areas of the huge city.

Built in 1871, the famous Albert Hall remains the most popular concert hall in the world today. More than 350 different events are organized within its walls every year. The structure, reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum, required huge costs for its construction. To complete construction, Queen Victoria instituted ticket sales for future events to be held at the Albert Hall. Thanks to people who respect art, the concert hall was completed. It is noteworthy that the tickets are valid for 999 years, and some English people still use them to attend events held here.

The magnificent royal theater located in Covent Garden strikes with its grandeur. Every performer or orchestra dreams of visiting its famous stage. The building was erected in 1858. Its predecessors were two theaters famous at that time, which were damaged by fire and could not be restored. Previously, it was possible to watch performances of almost all theatrical genres here. Today the repertoire is limited only to musical performances: ballets, concerts, operas.

Visitors of all ages can have fun at London's famous Natural History Museum. Over the 135-year history of its existence, the museum has collected more than 70 million exhibits. The most popular exposition, which presents the skeletons of dinosaurs. Here you can also look at a huge collection of meteorites. Even the building itself captivates with its delightful old architecture. Located in South Kensington, the museum is very popular with residents of the city and its visitors.

In 1862, a huge railway station was built on Victoria Street, designed by architect W. Henry, which was named after Queen Victoria. This unique building, built of red bricks, was reconstructed in 1910 and still adorns the city unique architecture. About 70 million passengers arrive here every year.

On an area of ​​121 hectares, in the south-west region of London, there are wonderful botanical gardens, which are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are all conditions for a pleasant stay. On the territory of the Royal Botanic Gardens, you can admire a huge number of a wide variety of plants, relax in cafeterias and restaurants. Kew Gardens can also please with huge collections of herbariums, drawings, seeds.

The symbol of English football is the popular Wembley Stadium. No football fan will miss the opportunity to visit this unique place. The opening of the first building took place in 1923, where the FA Cup was immediately launched. In 2003, it was decided to build a new stadium, which took 4 years to build. Today, in addition to sports competitions, performances by the most popular pop stars are organized at the new stadium. It was here that Madonna, Michael Jackson and many popular musical groups delighted the audience with their concerts.

It is interesting to visit the Chinese area of ​​London Chinatown. This is a unique place where two cultures practically merged: Chinese and English. At the beginning of the 20th century, outcasts and immigrants who arrived in Britain from other states lived in this disadvantaged area of ​​​​the city. Soon the area was settled by the Chinese, which was clearly reflected in its appearance. London's Chinatown is often visited by tourists who want to see a piece of China in England.

The modern Globe Theater impresses with its tragic history. The first version of the building was built in 1599, but after 14 years it was badly damaged by a fire that raged here in 1613. A year later, it was restored, but this time a difficult fate awaited it: the building was abandoned and destroyed. The architects of our time, having studied the ancient descriptions of the theater and the fragments found during excavations, recreated the building. It was in this place that the great Shakespeare organized performances of his works.

Connoisseurs of high art should definitely visit the Tate Gallery in London, where the works of the best British artists are collected. The first exposition appeared here in 1897. The Board of Trustees decided to present only the works of masters who have been working since 1790. At the beginning of the 20th century, they decided to significantly expand the gallery by creating collections of works by foreign artists. Sculptures of famous masters of our time are also presented here.

A real paradise is Oxford Street for people who carefully follow fashion. About 500 different shops are equipped on this street, which are visited annually by over 100 million Londoners and visitors to the city. Here you can see the works of famous couturiers presented in the boutiques of the most prestigious brands. This street is especially popular on the eve of the holidays, when everyone rushes to supermarkets in search of gifts for relatives and friends.

The Temple Church has an extremely rich history associated with the Knights Templar. It was founded in 1185 and since then its walls have witnessed the development of London. In this ancient majestic building, secret ceremonies were performed, during which knighting took place. Services are still held in this church today, during which you can listen to the singing of the choir, consisting of 30 people. In the inner courtyard of the church are beautiful gardens stretching to the banks of the Thames.

This is only a small part of the attractions of London, which will be of interest to all tourists. Photos and descriptions of these places will provide an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the many-sided and delightful capital of Great Britain. This city is an example of how to value your history, be proud of it and preserve it in order to pass on a rich heritage to future generations.

Video - London Attractions


There are many wonderful sights in London that have great importance on the cultures and arts not only of Great Britain, but of the whole world. Most of them are related to history. These are monuments, squares, majestic buildings. Every language learner should be able to describe the sights of London in English.

Sights of London in English

Big Ben

- one of the sights of London, which is considered a symbol of this city. This is not only what many associate with, but also the largest clock in the world.

To describe this attraction in London, you can use the following words:

Delight the eye Pleasing to the eye
be named after Named after
The most famous The most famous
Amazing Amazing
masterpiece Masterpiece
Impressive clock Impressive watch
clock tower Clock tower

How to describe London landmark Big Ben in English:

Trafalgar Square

is a popular place for meetings and demonstrations. The attraction is located in the center of London, at the intersection of three main London streets - Westminster, Whitehall and the Mall.

Madame Tussaud's London Museum (Madame Tussaud's London)

Known for his wax figures, which are very accurate and high quality. The attraction is on the list of must-sees for all tourists in London.

An example of a story about the sights of London Madame Tussauds in English:

Tower of London

- a landmark that is closely connected with English history. Here you can listen interesting excursions and learn a lot about the old events that took place on the territory of the city.

Description of London attractions in English:

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Buckingham Palace

is the residence of the royal family in the capital. Inside the building is a very beautiful interior that attracts many tourists. The palace occupies 20 hectares of land, of which 17 are gardens, which in the past were a forest used for hunting by members of the royal family.

A story about the sights of London in English:

Buckingham Palace is one of the most exciting places in London. Tourists like visiting it very much. The palace is very old. It was built in 1705. Now it is the official residence of British monarchy. There are more than 600 rooms in this building. Every year near 50 hundreds people are invited to this residence for parties and banquets. Many tourists come here because they want to see Queen Victoria Memorial. It is very beautiful.

Buckingham Palace is one of the most interesting places in London. Tourists love to visit it. The building is very old. It was built in 1705. It is now the official residence of the royal family. There are over 700 rooms. Every year, about 50 thousand people are invited to parties and banquets held in this house. Many tourists come there because they want to see the Victoria Memorial. This is a very beautiful statue.

British Museum (The British Museum)

This is one of the largest museums in the world. It houses expensive collections of paintings by artists from all over the world. The attraction includes 94 galleries. In them you can order a thematic tour and listen to the history of art.

Tower Bridge

This is a drawbridge in the center of London, which is often confused with the London Bridge. It was opened in 1894. This bridge is the symbol of the capital. There is a gallery on the bridge that overlooks the city. Its length is 244 meters.

How to describe a London landmark in English:

There are two towers near the bridge, in which observation platforms and galleries are organized, open to tourists. This attraction is considered a must-see for all visitors to the city.

London National Gallery (The National Gallery)

This is one of the largest galleries in the UK. In more detail, it presents more than 2 thousand exhibits of Western European painting. The paintings are arranged in chronological order so that visitors can listen to a lecture on the history of art and view examples of paintings at the same time.

How to describe a London landmark in English:

In the gallery you can also buy souvenirs and books about painting or audio lectures.

Read also

Westminster Abbey

The full name of this attraction is "St. Peter's Collegiate Church, Westminster". Since the 11th century, this place has been used for the coronation of monarchs. This is one of the most important religious places in the country.

How to describe a London landmark in English:

This place has been a center of education and learning for many centuries. Within the walls of the attraction translated the Bible into English. Royal weddings are also held in this church.

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

This park was created in the 18th century by the English monarch Henry VIII. He used the remnants of the forest to organize a landscaped area near the palace. At that time there were animals and members of the royal family often hunted there. Each subsequent monarch improved this place and ennobled it.

Now it is the greenest area in London, where people come to get some fresh air, have a picnic or take in the sights.

How to describe a London landmark in English:

The main attraction of the park is Kensington Palace. It is an elegant and beautifully decorated building that attracts many tourists.

Piccadilly Circus

- the central square of the city. There is a rich architecture, many attractions. It was built in 1819 to improve transport connection between adjacent streets.

How to describe a London landmark in English:

Piccadilly Circus is considered an exemplary square of the European capital. There are many modern shops and old buildings. There are also the Royal Academy of Arts, the Cupid Museum of London, the statue of Eros, the Ritz Hotel.

The Houses of Parliament

This landmark symbolizes the country. The Parliament was built in the 11th century, at that time it housed the residence of the kings.

How to describe this London attraction in English:

You can take a tour of the Parliament in the summer during parliamentary recess and on weekends, throughout the year. The rest of the time the building is not accessible to tourists.

River Thames (The Thames)

Thames The river on which London is located. It is a natural symbol of the city. The river flows into the North Sea maximum width in the city - 200 meters.

An example of an attraction description in English:

On the banks of the river in the city is a large port, which is one of the largest in the world.

Nelson's Column

The attraction is located in the center of Trafalgar Square. This is a tall monument that was built and named in honor of the memory of Admiral Nelson. The column was built over three years - from 1840 to 1843. The monument is very high: its height is only 51 meters.

How to describe a London landmark in English:

The attraction has an interesting history of creation. Some of its details are made from original materials, for example, the bronze leaves on the top are cast from English cannons, and the panels on the pedestal are from French ones.

Oxford Street

Oxford street - attraction that attracts tourists. Famous red buses drive here, residents of the capital and guests walk around. This is the most famous shopping street in the world. It is 2.5 kilometers long and has about 300 shops that offer a variety of good products.

How to describe a London landmark in English:

On this famous street, there are constant sales in stores, sometimes discounts reach 75%, which is why there are always so many tourists here.

Composition "Sights of London in English with translation"

An example of an essay on the topic "Sights of London" in English:

London is a big and beautiful city. Before you go there you need to find information about its sights. Because there are lots of interesting and historical places which every tourist must see. At first, you can visit the London Eye. The magnificent view of London will open from the highest point of this place. It is very inspiring and unforgettable. After that tourists usually walk to Trafalgar Square. The most important place of this part of London is Nelson's Column. People like meeting here and walking with friends. There is also a beautiful park in London. It is called Hyde Park. There are many flowers and trees. It is very green and nice. After that, it is possible to visit Buckingham Palace. It is a wonderful building! There are more than 600 rooms. It is a great opportunity for tourists because they can watch where and how the royal family live. Tourists also can order the excursion with a guide. There is also an interesting place for shopping. It is in Oxford Street. There are many shops with sales. Another interesting place which you need to visit is the river, Thames. Tourist can rent a boat and walk through the river watching a delightful view. London is a very interesting and cultural city! After all these visiting places you will never forget this trip! London is a beautiful and big city. Before you go there, you need to find information about its attractions. Because there are many interesting and historical places that everyone should see. First you need to see the Ferris wheel. An incredible view of London opens from its highest point of this place. It's very inspiring and unforgettable. After that, tourists usually go to Trafalgar Square. The most important part of this London attraction is Nelson's Column. People love to walk there and meet friends. There is a very beautiful park in London. It's called Hyde Park. There are many flowers and trees, it is very beautiful and green. After that, you can visit Buckingham Castle. This is an amazing building! There are over 600 rooms. This is a great opportunity for tourists because they can see where and how the royal family lives. You can also book a guided tour there. There is a place for shopping in London. This is Oxford Street. There are many stores that often have sales. Another interesting place to see is the River Thames. Tourists can rent a boat and take a walk along the river, watching the beautiful view. London is a very interesting and cultural city. After visiting all these places, it is impossible to forget about this trip!

Conclusion

London is the dream of many tourists, the city where films are made and where Harry Potter lived. The article was a brief sightseeing tour of London, which will help to make a presentation or report for an English lesson.

Also, the surroundings and unusual sights of London can be viewed online on a computer, it's absolutely free. If you are going on a tourist trip to London, then do not forget to take a map to know the main routes, how to get to the point you need.

It is unlikely that anyone will argue with the fact that London is one of the main tourist destinations in the world. According to official statistics, London attracts over 15 million visitors a year. The British capital is a vibrant concentration of art, entertainment, music and numerous monuments. The British are rightly proud of the huge concentration of cultural attractions in London. From royal palaces to the Houses of Parliament, Roman ruins, castles and cathedrals, you can spend many days exploring London's landmarks and always find something new and interesting. The capital of England and the United Kingdom is also the most populous city in the UK with over 9 million inhabitants. The history of London goes back over 2,000 years, when the Romans first founded the ancient city of Londinium here. Numerous tourists come here throughout the year, and if you plan to be among them, here is a list of the top 17 London attractions for the active traveler.

British museum

Located in the Bloomsbury area, the British Museum is dedicated to human history and culture. Its permanent collection of approximately 8 million works is one of the largest and most comprehensive exhibitions in the world, spanning the history of all continents. The British Museum illustrates and documents the history of human culture from its inception to the present day. Visiting the museum is free, but sometimes there are small queues.

Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster (more commonly known as the House of Commons and the House of Lords) is the Houses of Parliament in the United Kingdom. The history of the House of Commons and the House of Lords spans over 900 years, from the time of the Anglo-Saxons to the present day. The current building was built in the 19th century, restored after a fire in the magnificent tradition of Victorian neo-Gothic architecture. The appearance of the Palace of Westminster is decorated with Big Ben - the legendary clock tower on the banks of the River Thames. This landmark of london recognizable all over the world and is one of the most visited places in London.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern is the UK's national gallery for international contemporary art. She is part of the Tate Group (along with Tate Britain, Tate Liverpool, Tate St Ives and Tate Online). Tate Modern is the most visited contemporary art gallery in the world, with 4.7 million visitors a year. Admission to the Tate Modern is absolutely free, with the exception of some special exhibitions.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. This famous landmark is located in London's Tower Hamlets, separated from the eastern edge of London City Square by the open space of Tower Hill. The Tower was founded towards the end of 1066, in honor of Norman conquest England. In general, this is a complex of several buildings in two rings of protective walls and a moat. The Tower of London has played a very important role in English history.

Madame Tussauds museum

Madame Tussauds is a wax museum in London with branches in many major cities on four continents. It was founded by the wax sculptor Marie Tussauds, becoming one of the main attractions in London. Wax figures of historical and royal figures, movie stars, sports stars and even infamous assassins are on display here.

Science Museum

The Science Museum is the largest museum on Exhibition Road in South Kensington. It was founded in 1857 and today is one of the most visited places in the city, attracting 3.3 million visitors annually. Here you can experience the main scientific achievements of the past 300 years, as well as visit the stunning IMAX cinema. Entrance to the Science Museum is absolutely free.

Museum of Natural History

The museum is entirely devoted to earth sciences and includes approximately 80 million exhibits in five main groups: botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology and zoology. The Museum of Natural History is a world-renowned research center specializing in the taxonomy, identification and conservation of the riches of the earth. Given the age of the institution, many exhibits have a very large historical, as well as scientific significance. Some specimens were collected by Charles Darwin himself. Like all other museums in London, the Natural History Museum does not require any entrance fee.

"London Eye"

A modern but already very popular attraction in London is the "London Eye" - a giant ferris wheel located in the Jubilee Gardens on the South Bank of the Thames. The 135 meters high Ferris Wheel was created in honor of the millennium of London. On a clear day, visibility from the summit is 40 kilometers.

Victoria and Albert Museum

London's Victoria and Albert Museum is the world's largest museum of decorative arts and design, with a permanent collection of over 4.5 million items. It was founded in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Permission to V&A is free except for special exhibitions and events.

National Gallery

National Gallery - Art Museum on Trafalgar Square in London, founded in 1824. It houses the national collection of art in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 19th centuries. It is one of the most visited museums in the world, after the Louvre in Paris, the British Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is a large city square founded in honor of Lord Horatio Nelson's victory over Napoleon's navy at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The central monument of the square is tall pole with the figure of Nelson contemplating London. His monument is surrounded by four lions and a series of large fountains. This landmark of London got its name in honor of the Battle of Trafalgar - a British naval victory during the Napoleonic Wars, which took place on October 21, 1805 off the coast of Cape Trafalgar.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a large Gothic church in the city of Westminster, not far from the Palace of Westminster. Westminster Abbey has been around for over a thousand years. Benedictine monks first settled the site in the middle of the tenth century, establishing a tradition of daily worship that continues to this day. In 1066, the church became the site for the coronation and is the burial place of seventeen monarchs. The existing structure was built by Henry III in 1245 and became one of the most important Gothic buildings. Admission to Westminster Abbey is free.

Buckingham Palace

This is a London residence and most importantly workplace Queen of Great Britain. Located in the city of Westminster, the palace is the venue for official ceremonies and a symbol of royal hospitality. Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of British sovereigns since 1837, and despite being used for many official events and receptions, the State Rooms of the Palace are open to visitors throughout the year.

Hampton Court

Hampton Court is one of the most famous palaces in Europe. Its Grand Hall dates back to the reign of Henry VIII. This is the place where Elizabeth I learned about the defeat of the Spanish Armada. Other points of interest include the Clock Hall with its spectacular 1540 astronomical clock, the Chapel, the Royal Chambers and the Tudor tennis court. The Hampton Gardens are also worth a visit, especially in mid-May when they are in full bloom. The Garden Complex includes the Secret Garden, the Lakes, the Elizabethan Garden, the Wilderness and the famous Palace Labyrinth.

Piccadilly Circus

The two most famous tourist area London are located not far from each other. Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus are popular for attractions such as the Soho Locks, the London Theater and the Entertainment District. Piccadilly Circus is the intersection of several busy streets - Piccadilly, Regent Street, Haymarket, and Shaftesbury Avenue. London's most famous sculpture, Winged Eros, is a finely balanced masterpiece of art on this lively site.

covent garden

covered markets Covent Garden is only the beginning of a large complex covering the shops and restaurants of Long Acre with neighboring streets, as well as central square with her street performers. The halls and galleries of Covent Garden Market, with their specialty shops and stalls, attract a lot of tourists. Absolutely everything is sold here, from fine handicrafts to small souvenirs. In the building of the former flower market You will find the London Transport Museum with historical exhibits - vintage cars, trams and buses. This area is also home to the Royal Opera House, another famous landmark in London.

Greenwich and Docklands

For centuries, Greenwich and the Docklands has been the main base of the British Navy. ---- Greenwich is best known to tourists as the home of Cutty Sark----. It is also home to the Greenwich Visitor Center with its exhibitions showcasing more than 500 years of maritime history and the Pallas Athena style mansion known as the Queen's House. The impressive exhibits of the National Maritime Museum, the largest museum of its kind in the world, illustrate the history of the British Royal Navy. The lively Docklands is located on the other side of the river. It has been transformed into an international business district and is filled with London's finest restaurants. The excellent Docklands Museum, housed in old Georgian warehouses, is dedicated to the river port and its history since Roman times. Interactive information displays are especially interesting for children.

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is officially called the Royal Botanic Gardens. It is located in southwest London on the south bank of the Thames. This is a wonderful place to spend time enjoying the many plants on an impressive 300 acres. Established in 1759, the gardens became a government park in 1841. In 1897, Queen Victoria added the Queen's House and the surrounding woodland to the site. Many tours of the park are completely free, and Kew Gardens hosts numerous concerts and cultural events throughout the year.

Churchill War Rooms

Among London's most exciting historical sights is the well-preserved command center from which Prime Minister Winston Churchill directed British military campaigns during World War II. Their spartan simplicity and limited conditions highlight the difficulties that England experienced during the expansion of Nazi power throughout Europe. Here you will see the tiny room where Churchill slept and the makeshift radio room where he broadcast his famous war speeches. Numerous simple details, such as Clementine Churchill yarn and maps of Europe with markers, create an indescribable atmosphere.

One of the most visited cities in the world has something for everyone, so don't miss the chance to visit the capital of England at least once in your life to experience all the highlights of London.

London attracts people with its unique architecture and beauty. The city of fogs is very popular among tourists from different parts of our planet. The Greenwich Meridian passes through the capital of Great Britain. Here you can be in two parts of the world in just a few minutes. Only in this city the bus causes a storm of emotions among tourists. After all, the red bus is already a symbol of Great Britain. Let's talk about the popular sights of London, what to see and where to go.

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Big Ben

The huge clock tower towering over the Thames is a symbol of London. Many believe that it is she who is called "Big Ben". However, in reality, Big Ben is a huge bell on a tower. In ancient times, bells were given names. So they called the symbol of London "Ben", in honor of Benjamin Hall. They say that it was this man who supervised the installation of a huge bell.

Subsequently, the tower itself began to be called by this name. Although its real name is the Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster. The height of the structure reaches 96.3 meters. The clock on it is the largest in the world. There are 4 dials that are rotated to 4 cardinal directions. Big Ben's clock is the most accurate in the world. The huge bell will get a crack. As a result, his sound became peculiar.

The tower looks majestic and beautiful. In the dark, it all glows especially gorgeous. Near the sights are always crowded. In addition, there is a busy traffic of cars. The situation worsens over the weekend. If you decide to visit this place, it is better to go on weekdays. You can get to Big Ben by subway to Westminster station.

Or by bus to the stop "Parliamentskaya Square". Tourists are not allowed to climb the tower. Since it is part of the Westminster complex, which belongs to government agency. Available only to British citizens. The tour to Big Ben lasts about 1.5 hours. A ticket for an adult costs about 15 euros, for a child about 6 euros.

British museum

This is an art collection place. ancient greece, Rome, Ancient Egypt. It houses the work of masters from all over the world. Engravings, drawings, ethnography, coins and medals - all this can be seen in one of the largest museums in the world. The building has been under construction for 24 years. But during World War II, the museum was partially destroyed. Therefore, many exhibits were taken out of here. The restoration of the structure and the return of works of art took many more years. In museums, you can see wooden sarcophagi with animal mummies. Reliefs depicting scenes of battles and hunting evoke delight and grandeur.

Only in the British Museum (British Museum) there is an opportunity to see the sculptural portraits of the emperors Augustus and Hadrian. Fans of numismatics should definitely visit the coin room. And connoisseurs of painting will be happy to see here the works of Michelangelo, Botticelli, Durer, Raphael, Van Gogh and Rembrandt. You can get to the museum by underground to the stop "Tottenham Court Road" or "Holborn". Or by bus in that direction. Opening hours from 10:00 to 17:30 every day.

On Friday, some departments are on duty until 20.30. Entrance to the museum is free. Russian-speaking guides work here. In the British Museum, Nights at the Museum are very popular. They come here 4 times a year. Each time a new theme is given. During such an excursion, it is possible to listen to interesting stories all night long. It is simply impossible to see all the exhibits at once. There is a cafe and a souvenir shop on the territory of the museum.

Westminster

The House of Parliament Westminster is famous all over the world. This is a huge and beautiful complex, which is located on the banks of the Thames. Its two famous towers, Big Ben and Victoria, stretch high into the sky. The building of impressive size is striking in its beauty. It feels the strength and power of Great Britain. Westminster was open only to British rule for many years.

Excursions to the Parliament House were allowed only in 2004. Visitors are allowed here during the parliamentary recess from August 7 to September 16, throughout the year on Saturdays. Inside the building you can see the royal gallery with paintings and sculptures, the royal wardrobe, the chamber for disputes. The main attraction of the Houses of Parliament is Westminster Hall.

You can get to Westminster by metro to the station of the same name. The tour is free. It starts when a group of 16 people is recruited. Visiting hours at Parliament House are from 10:00 to 16:00 from Monday to Friday. Saturday from 08.45 to 16.45. To avoid queues, you can book tickets online in advance.

The cost of the tour is about 30 euros for adults. A child ticket can be purchased for 13 euros. Children under 5 years of age are free to enter. Discounts are available for students, pensioners and groups of 10 or more. If you want to save money, you can order an audio tour. Its price is 10 euros cheaper.

Sherlock Holmes Museum

Museum of London's most famous Sir Mr. Sherlock Holmes (The Sherlock Holmes Museum) is located at 221B Baker Street in Westminster. It is located in the most ordinary 4-storey building. From afar, the museum is not noticeable, it can be recognized only by the sign and the queues of tourists. At the bottom of the house-museum is a gift shop. Above is the sitting room and bedroom of the sir himself.

On the third floor are the rooms of the mistress of the house, Mrs. Hudson and Dr. Watson. On the top floor there is an exhibition of wax figures. It consists of numerous detective heroes. Here you can meet Professor Mariarti himself, Irene Adler, the Baskerville dog or a corpse on the floor. There is a bathroom in the attic. Photography is allowed in the museum.

Visitors are happy to pose against the backdrop of their favorite character's home. Here you are allowed to sit in armchairs by the fireplace. And on a special table, props are always ready: Sherlock's cap, pipe and magnifying glass. You can get to the museum by subway to the Baker Street station. Just a few minutes walk to it. The museum is open every day except Christmas holidays.

A ticket to it costs about 7 euros for an adult and 5 euros for a child. It is better to go here on a tour in the morning. There are many who want to see Sherlock Holmes' house. With a large crowd of people, moving around the museum is quite difficult. And photographing anything is even more difficult. Opening hours from 9.30 to 18.00 hours.

Piccadilly street

Piccadilly is the most famous street in London. It is located in one of the oldest districts of the city - Westminster. The street is always quite busy, it is full of people, tourists and residents of the capital. Piccadilly was named after tailor Robert Baker. He made his fortune tailoring piccadilly collars. Baker purchased a piece of land in the area and built a house called Piccadilly Hall. As a result, the streets were built up with rich mansions of wealthy people of London. Such houses became known as "Piccadilly". Here and today there are many houses-clubs, the entrance to which ordinary people prohibited.

Everyone who got to the capital of Great Britain should take a walk along Piccadilly. The street is huge, clean, with incredible beautiful houses and shops. Especially beautiful here in the evening. When London lights up, Piccadilly's mansions blaze with colorful lights. And boutiques cannot but attract attention. Shop windows are carefully designed here. Each little thing, jar, casket attracts special attention. The eponymous square in Piccadilly is one of the favorite meeting places of the British. Here very often they make appointments or just friendly meetings.

The well-known cafe "Royal" is located on the street. Creative people like to meet here: artists, writers, poets. Getting to Piccadilly is easy. transport interchange one of the best in the world here. Several major roads lead to it. The fastest way to get to the famous street is by subway to Picadilly Circus or Green Park stations.

District City

The City of London is one of the most ancient areas of London. It is located in the heart of the capital of England. The area has an amazing status, it is not subject to royal authority. The head of the City is its mayor. And, if someone from the royal authority decides to come to this area, they can do this only with the permission of the head of the City. It has its own rules and laws.

The City is officially the smallest county in the UK. The boundaries of the district are separated by special columns. The population of the City is also the smallest, about 10,000 people. The area was founded by the Romans about 2000 years ago. At that time Great Britain was still part of the Roman Empire. Many streets of the City follow the roads that were laid by the ancient Romans.

There are a lot of historical monuments in the area. Here are the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Royal Exchange, Leadenhall Market. Old buildings in the City alternate with new buildings. Infrastructure development has not stopped here. There are many office towers in the area: Heron, Lloyd's, Mary-Ex 30, Walkie-Talkie, Tower 42. The largest complex of the capital, the Barbican Center, was built here. The architecture of the City is an incredible mixture of all ages and styles.

It is definitely worth visiting this area. Visiting the attraction on weekends or in the evening does not make any sense. It may happen that you are alone on the whole street. The area is beautiful when there is a lot of work around. However, during peak hours, the metro suffers from a large number of people. So choose your time of visit carefully. It is convenient to get to the area by metro. There are quite a few stations: Barbican, Tower Hill, Liverpool, Mansion House.

Tower

The Tower of London is located on the north bank of the Thames. It is considered the best-preserved building in Europe. Over the entire long history of the Tower, for all the years they could not be taken by storm. The thickness of its walls reaches 4.5 meters. The castle has a difficult history. The complex was inhabited by royalty. Noble and rich people were also imprisoned here. The Tower was both a home and a prison at the same time. It keeps traces of human tragedies and deaths.

The Tower is surrounded by myths and legends that are already difficult to distinguish from the real history of the castle. A black crow is considered a symbol of misfortune and misfortune of the complex. According to legend, he appears on the territory of the complex before any tragedy. The castle leads in the number of ghosts living in it. The British claim that the ghosts of royalty who have met death live here on the territory of the complex.

Tower fascinates and intimidates at the same time. A huge castle, which repulsed many enemies, rises above the Thames. It is especially beautiful at sunset. Roads on the territory of the complex are made of stone blocks. Therefore, you should take care of comfortable shoes. There are many tourists in the Tower. Those who have a london pass are skipped out of the queue. So, it is better to buy tickets in advance. Opening hours of the complex from March to October: from 9 to 17.30 from Tuesday to Saturday.

From November to February, the castle is open from 9:00 to 16:30. On Sunday and Monday, the Tower receives tourists from 10 to 17.30, regardless of the season. The castle is closed on Christmas holidays. An adult ticket costs about 5 euros, for children about 4 euros. A family ticket costs about 15 euros. You can get to the castle by metro to Tower Hill station or by bus number 15, 42, 78, 100.

Tower Bridge

Another symbol of England, strict and beautiful at the same time, is the famous Tower Bridge. It captivates visitors at first sight with its impressive size and stunning architecture. The bridge was built in the 19th century when London became an imposing commercial and industrial center. Two Gothic towers of the building, as well as possible, convey the whole English spirit.

The bridge is in harmony with the nearby Tower. It becomes its continuation. Inside the bridge, between the towers is a museum. Previously, it was a pedestrian zone, but later it was closed due to the increased cases of thefts in such a deserted place. The towers can be reached by stairs or an elevator. The lifting mechanism can also be seen. He is huge.

You can take pictures on the bridge. But metal structures and glass greatly hinder this. Therefore, most knowledgeable tourists do not climb the towers. Beautiful landscapes can be seen from other bridges in London. In the gallery of the building there is an exposition of photographs with various bridges of the world. There is also information about them here.

Tower Bridge is open every day from April to September from 10:00 to 18:30. From October to March from 9.30 to 18.00 hours. A ticket for adults costs about 10 euros, for children - about 4. For a child under 5 years old, admission is free. Tower Bridge is located in the center of London, next to Tower Castle. Tower Hill metro stop or bus number 42, 100, 15, 78.

Globus theatre

The Globe is the very first theater in the capital of Great Britain. It was erected on the site where its predecessor used to be. At the beginning of its history, the Globe was only a small area in the form of a circle, surrounded by a fence. This building burned down completely. And the authorities erected a house in its place. The new theater building was built a few meters from the old one. It was opened in 1997. The architects tried to make the theater as close as possible to the very first building.

Inside there are three tiers of balconies with seating. Near the stage, you can enjoy the performances only while standing. The way the performances were watched in the old days by poor people who did not have money for sitting tickets. Microphones and spotlights in the Globe are fundamentally not used. To create an atmosphere similar to the one that reigned in the ancient theater.

You can buy tickets online or buy in advance. Despite the fact that the Globe does not work in winter, excursions to it are still carried out. The theater is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Times change during the theater season. Entrance for adults costs about 18 euros, for children - about 11. Children under 5 years old enter for free. You can get to the Globe by taking the subway to the Cannon or Mansion House stop.

Theater Royal Covent Garden

Covent Garden London is considered the largest opera house in the UK. It got its name in honor of the square on which the theater was built. In 1808 the building burned down. But in just 9 months it was restored. To return the money spent on repairs, the authorities raised the price of tickets. However, after a 2-month public boycott and disruption of performances, they gave up and were forced to reduce prices to the old level. Once again, a fire in 1986 destroyed Covent Garden for the second time. In this case, the recovery took about two years.

Excursions to Covent Garden (Covent Garden) two. The first is called "Behind the scenes of the theater." She acquaints tourists with the everyday life of actors and preparations for new works. A ticket for adults costs about 14 euros, for children - about 10 euros, for students and pensioners - about 13 euros. The second tour is called Velvet, Gilding and Glamour. It introduces travelers to the architecture and history of the building. A ticket for adults costs about 12 euros, for children - about 10 euros, for students and pensioners - about 9 euros. You can see the interior of the theater, and at the same time enjoy the opera, from 18 to 217 euros. You can get to Covent Garden by bus 9, 13, 15, 23, 139 and 153. Or take the Underground to Covent Garden Station.

Trafalgar Square

The main square of the capital of Great Britain - Trafalgar Square - gathers residents of the city for all the big holidays of the country. It is named after the Trafalgar victory by Admiral Horatio Nelson. The monument to the admiral is located in the center of the square, surrounded by 6-meter lions. Each animal is a symbol of Nelson's victories in battles. Also here you can see the monument to Charles I.

From it, the British count the distances. The monument is located in the central point of the capital. There are 4 pedestals at the 4 corners of the square. On the tops of 3 of them are monuments to George IV, General Napier and Henry Havelock. Surprisingly, pedestal 4 was empty until 2005. After it was replaced by various sculptures, including living ones.

So far, in 2010, a model of the Victoria ship, where Admiral Nelson died heroically, was installed on the pedestal. Pigeons were one of the symbols of the square. Over the years, thousands of birds have lived on it. Until in 2007 the authorities forbade feeding them. Now there are almost no pigeons. The square is located in the center of the capital at the intersection of three streets: Mall, Strand and Whitehall. You can get to it by bus number 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 24 and many others. By metro you can get to the stations "Charing Cross", "Embankment".

Abbey Route

Abbey Route can be called "the street where dreams come true." This place is loved by young people and creative people. The British gave her a second name, which sounds like "The home of love and art." Fans of The Beatles, Pink Floyd and Duran Duran come here to see the place where their idols recorded their songs. Abbey Route is home to Amy Recording Studios, a world-famous recording studio.

The most popular place on the street is the intersection, the image of which was captured on the latest The Beatles disc. All tourists take pictures here. Even drivers are sympathetic to this, giving way. The zebra in this place is the only one in the world that has a webcam with live broadcast to the Internet.

The building at the intersection of Abbey Road and Grove End Road is an unofficial monument to the Beatles. Here you can see a sign with the inscription: "Abbey Road NW8 City of Westminster". It was often stolen by the band's fans. Therefore, the sign had to be tightly mounted into the building for enough high altitude. The building near the inscription is painted every three months, but the Beatles graffiti appears again and again. You can get to Abbey Route by subway to St. John's Wood. Nearby there is a bus stop - "Abbey Road Grove End Road". Walking along Abbey Route is free. But if you want to listen to information and entertaining stories, you can buy a ticket for a tour of the streets of London. Its cost is about 88 euros.

Westminster Abbey

The world-famous monastery - Westminster abbey - is the main shrine of Great Britain. It is located next to the Palace of Westminster. It is here that the royal people of Great Britain are crowned, married and buried. This is a very large and beautiful building, made in the form of a Latin cross. The monastery has two large towers and a huge variety of carved arches.

The rich interior is decorated with wonderful stained-glass windows. Here you can see the magnificent frescoes of the 12th century. The floor of the abbey impresses with its wonderful mosaic. Inside the monastery is more like a tomb. There are more than three thousand tombstones here. Among them, the tombs of kings, monarchs and great people of the kingdom. Charles Dickens, Isaiah Newton, Lord Byron, Charles Darwin, Robert Burns found their rest in the abbey.

In the monastery there is a coronation throne, which is called the "Stone of Destiny". Brass music concerts are often held in the abbey. Photographs and filming are not allowed inside the cathedral. Deciding to visit the cathedral, you need to take care of your clothes. You will not be allowed in shorts and short skirts. The abbey also has a rule that advises against bringing preschool children to avoid unnecessary noise. The monastery is located in the center of Westminster.

You can get to it by tube to Westminster or St. James's Park. The opening hours of the abbey are Monday to Friday from 9.30 to 15.30, Wednesday from 9.30 to 18.00, Saturday from 9.30 to 12.30. The entrance fee is about 23 euros for adults. For children, a ticket can be bought for about 7 euros. Entry for children under 11 is free.

Buckingham Palace

This palace differs from hundreds of similar monuments in that it is still a functioning royal residence. The palace was originally owned by the Duke of Buckingham, who later sold it to George III. Construction and decoration stretched out for almost a century - and the ballroom was completely finished only by the middle of the nineteenth century. Over the past years, the interiors of the palace have changed scenery more than once, only luxury has remained unchanged.

Not only the palace itself is an attraction, but also the traditions that "surround" it. For example, the changing of the guard, which is perhaps the most recognizable ceremony in the world. Admission to the ceremonial halls will cost adults (from 17 years old) £24.00. Visiting the palace is possible starting from 09.30. But closing times vary. This usually happens around 6pm.

Kensington Palace

This is the most modest and comfortable of the modern royal residences in England. Today it belongs to the Prince and Princess of Cambridge. It is noteworthy that the mistresses of the palace are always women. Moreover, women who changed history. Once it was under its vaults that Queen Victoria was born, and a little later, the echo of Princess Diana's footsteps began to spread through the spacious halls. But behind the seemingly inconspicuous facade hides paintings, unique interior items and historical halls. Pay special attention to the tapestries and paintings on the ceilings and walls.

In the center of the palace, in the middle of the revived history, there is a stunning installation, which is rightfully considered a real miracle of scientific and technical thought. Of course, we are talking about Shining Lace - a light installation, for the creation of which not only 12 thousand Swarovski crystals were spent, but also 4 kilometers of luminous wire. During the summer (March to October) the palace is open to the public from 10.00 to 18.00, winter time– until 16.00. The cost of an adult ticket will be up to £19.50.

St Paul's Cathedral

The most high point London and concurrently the largest Anglican church in Europe is the official residence of the local bishop. The building that you can see today is the fifth variation on a similar theme - the previous three were destroyed during fires, and the fourth was completely plundered by the Vikings. The dome of the cathedral is something that you simply cannot help but pay attention to. In the original plan, it was not there, and therefore the designers needed all their ingenuity to organically weave an exact copy of the dome of the main basilica of Rome into the project.

St. Paul's Cathedral opens its doors to tourists at half past nine in the morning, and closes at half past five. On Sundays, the cathedral is open only to parishioners. The cost of an adult entrance ticket (from 18 years old) is £18, if you are part of an excursion group - £16. When you book your ticket online, you can save up to £2.

Oxford Street

Welcome to the busiest shopping street in Europe! Sooner or later, any guest of London throws into its orbit, which, however, is not surprising - it is here that several extremely popular tourist routes pass, and the local pricing policy is such that a middle-class person will leave here with a thousand rustling packages, but without significant damage to their budget . This area appeared on the map of the city in the sixteenth century, when a section of the old Roman road began to be built up with cheap houses.

This is how urban slums appeared, which at first were the venue for public executions, and then (after the introduction of a corresponding ban) the center of the trading life of middle-class craftsmen. Today there are more than 300 shops here. Don't try to look into everything - local policy is to put things at the door that best reflect this establishment.

Therefore, you can immediately understand whether this place is suitable for you or you can safely move on. Oxford Circus, Marble Arch and Bond Street - these underground stations all go to Oxford Street and they are all literally crowded. Be especially careful while walking along Oxford Street - this London street breaks all records for petty theft.

Charles Dickens House Museum

To date, this is the last of the surviving houses where Charles and Catherine Dickens lived. At first glance, it becomes clear that this house is a stronghold of Victorian England - its spirit, the life of the old school. The restorers did a great job of conveying the mood of a lived-in, warm nineteenth-century house with a cute living room, a long dining table, a magnificent bed hidden under a canopy, and various kitchen utensils.

There is also a writer's office with his personal belongings. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. This schedule is maintained throughout the year, except in December, when the museum is open seven days a week. The cost of an adult ticket is £9.50.

Soho area

In Soho, you can meet a contingent of completely different kinds: from students to the marginalized. This area lives up to its reputation as the liveliest place in London. His appearance is associated with Henry VIII, a fan of women and hunting. It is believed that the name came from the hunting call "So-ho". The atmosphere of the area has developed historically - Soho has always been a kind of buffer zone between the aristocratic quarters and the mob quarters, and therefore mainly immigrants, people of creative professions and marginals settled here.

Today there are very few residential houses, and finding these inconspicuous courtyards is quite difficult. Basically, clubs, bars and sex shops are concentrated here. Soho is lively at any time of the day or night, so if at four in the morning you decide that the party is not over yet, feel free to head here. Soho is also worth a visit for gourmets - here you can find the most colorful set of cuisines and restaurants in the world at fairly liberal prices.

Mary X skyscraper

The forty-story, fully glazed Mary X skyscraper was named after the street on which it stands, but its official name is the gherkin, that is, "cucumber". Londoners named it in a similar way because of the greenish tint of the glass and the corresponding shape. Against the backdrop of historic London, this skyscraper looks extremely futuristic. Innovative methods were used to create it. So, load-bearing structures made in the form of a grid were used, which made it possible to make the building more economical in terms of maintenance.

And the abundance of glass solved three problems at once: the problem of ventilation, heat preservation, as well as lighting - after all, the building is literally filled with light in the daytime. For the uniqueness of the project, the team of engineers received a number of prestigious European awards. The entrance to the tower is not open every day, but if you are still lucky, the passage to observation deck free. Cafes and restaurants are located on the last three floors.

Leadenhall Market

The oldest market of Foggy Albion does not lose its relevance. Back in the days of Londinium, as the Romans called it, there were shopping areas here, and Leadenhall Market itself appeared on the city map in the fourteenth century, to quickly become one of the fastest growing retail outlets in London. By the beginning of the nineteenth century, its importance could no longer be denied, and the city authorities announced a competition. The winner got the opportunity to bring to life their design for a building for Leadenhall.

As a result, we got a huge shopping pavilion with long galleries and a glass roof decorated with hundreds of details. If you experience a vague feeling of deja vu, being under the shadow of the glass vaults, know that this feeling was quite justified - it was here that the "magical" London was filmed in the first part of the Harry Potter saga.

Skyscraper Shard

Shard has become one of the newest architectural landmarks of the capital. The construction of this glass pyramid was timed to coincide with the start of the 2012 Olympic Games. "Shard of Glass" fully justifies its name - thousands of glass panels sparkle in the sun. As a rule, tourists can enter the skyscraper building from 10 am to 6 pm from Sunday to Wednesday, from 10 am to 10 pm on other days, but such working hours are unstable.

It all depends on whether any events will be held, and therefore, before visiting the skyscraper, check the working hours for the current day. The full cost of the visit (for one day) is 32 £. You can go up to the observation deck (from the 68th to the 72nd floors) and use the bar for free. If it is too cloudy at the time of your visit to prevent you from enjoying the view, you will be entitled to claim your money back.

London National Gallery

One of the largest art galleries the capital looks somewhat more modest than the same Louvre, but it is more structured. Paintings from the twelfth to the twentieth centuries are exhibited here, with representatives of schools exclusively in Western Europe being in focus. The gallery was opened at the beginning of the nineteenth century and has already managed to change its location.

The last move was forced - there were more and more paintings, and it was necessary to start the construction of a new building. Soon, at the northern end of Trafalgar Square, the Wilkins-authored building, known to everyone today, appeared. More than two thousand exhibits have been collected in the halls, and therefore it will be almost impossible to get around everything in a day.

It’s better to decide right away whether you want to get to know Van Dyck, one of the titans of English classical painting, or you are interested in Van Gogh’s paintings. If you wish, you can listen to audio lectures or apply for additional information to museum staff. The gallery is open from 10 am to 6 pm daily. On Fridays it closes at 21.00. The entrance is free.

Madame Tussauds museum

Marie Tussauds was able to brilliantly put into practice the knowledge she received while her mother worked as a housekeeper for Philip Curtis, a recognized master of the wax figure. At first, Tussauds traveled with her silent companions through the cities, and then decided to settle in London. She originally opened her museum on Baker Street, but then moved it to Marylebone Street, where it is today. Since its opening, the museum has not changed its concept.

Rising stars of our time appear in collections immediately, but also quickly disappear if fame real prototype starts to fade. Liverpool Four characters Star Wars”, Benedict Cumberbatch and Marilyn Monroe are quite comfortable side by side with politicians and kings. Modern technologies allow you to make the figures a little more alive.

So, Jennifer Lopez blushes charmingly. The museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm on weekdays. On weekends it opens at 9. A standard ticket will cost you £35 if you buy it at the box office and £29 if you buy your ticket online.

The London Underground is a historical museum located deep underground. Medieval instruments of torture are collected here, which continue to evoke horror. The museum opened at the end of the twentieth century. The first batch of the most terrifying people and non-humans in history made a lasting impression on the public. Since then, little has changed - thanks to the improvement of the technical base, the museum continues to make its guests tremble with fear.

In addition to torture instruments, the modern exposition includes "live performances". You can see with your own eyes how ugly and unsightly some of the realities of medieval London were: the fire of 1666, the plague, wars. And you will find yourself in the epicenter of events!

On Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, the museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm. Tours start at 11am on Thursdays. On Saturdays, the last tour starts at 6 pm and on Sundays at 5 pm. You can book tickets directly on the website. The starting price is £21.

Tate British Gallery

The gallery was based on the personal collections of Sir Henry Tate, who owned one of the world's largest collections of examples of English art from the sixteenth to the twentieth century. It is noteworthy that the opening of the gallery became possible only due to the fact that Henry Tate is the creator of cotton candy, and the expected popularity of this delicacy made him a very wealthy person.

Gradually, the collections grew so much that it became necessary to separate them: works of the classical period remained in the old premises on Trafalgar Square, while objects of modern art moved to the new premises on the banks of the Thames.

Today, the old power plant, which houses the galleries, has become a cult tourist destination. Entrance to the gallery is free. Tickets are only required for special exhibitions. From Sunday to Thursday the gallery is open from 10 am to 10 pm. Fridays and Saturdays - until 18.00.

Hyde Park

This park usually has a rather lively atmosphere. Everyone is well aware of such a national British trait as restraint, and they have probably heard the expression “hard upper lip” at least once. The faces of these people will not flinch, no matter what happens! This does not apply to two things - football and Hyde Park. As you know, English fans are among the most furious in the world, and as for Hyde Park, there is the so-called Speakers' Corner, where anyone can climb the podium and speak on any topic.

There are only three prohibitions: microphones, calls for violence and obscene language. Therefore, do not deny yourself the pleasure of joining the flow of sincerity. The park itself has the appearance of a typical, slightly careless English park - imposing and picturesque. No French symmetry - only calmness and relative riot of nature.

Serpentine Lake is located in the very center of the park - people often walk barefoot on its shore, and swimming is not forbidden in the lake itself. Nearby is a small contemporary art gallery of the same name. The park is open daily from 5 am to midnight.

The London Eye (or Millennium Wheel) was built in London for the start of the millennium celebrations. By the time construction was completed, it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, however, today this status has passed to a similar structure, but already in Singapore. There are a total of 32 transparent cabins in the Ferris wheel, each of which can accommodate up to 25 people at the same time.

You can also choose a cabin for two and enjoy a kind of romantic walk. The start times for the London Eye vary quite a bit throughout the year, but it typically opens at 10am and closes between 6:30 and 9:30pm. The cost of an adult ticket is £25.20. When ordering tickets online, you can save up to 15% of the amount.

Thames

The Thames is not just another river. English monarchs built their palaces on its banks in order to get home faster. It was this waterway that made London one of the largest port cities in Europe. The Thames has been a source of inspiration more than once. So, the amazing impressionist Claude Monet created a whole series of landscapes on a similar theme. The English painter William Turner did not lag behind him. It was along the Thames that three well-known people traveled with their dog, and Dickens' heroes often walked along its banks.

It's time for you to enjoy the beauty of this glorious river. Buy a ticket on one of the ferries plying the water stream and try to feel the majestic article of the bridges (Tower, London, Waterloo and others), take a look at London's most striking sights from a different angle: the Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, St. Paul's Cathedral and a lot others.

St. Pancras station

After restoration in 2007, the Sant Parnas station, located right in the city center, quite confidently began to compete with other attractions that claimed the title of the most romantic place cities. The building in which the station is located was built back in the Victorian era and has fully retained its charm.

This is a kind of “matryoshka”, because the station itself is located in an arched landing stage, and a neo-Gothic building was built around it, in which the hotel was located. True, today under the arches of the station from the nineteenth century there is no trace left - only naked modernity. There are trains to the mainland from St. Parnasse Station.

Today, it takes about two hours to get from Paris to London. King's Cross (famous among fans of the Harry Potter universe) and St. Parnassus are combined thanks to the presence of a London Underground station, in whose name the names of the stations are organically combined.

Wembley Stadium

London Wembley is one of the largest sports venues in the world. It was built on the site of a truly legendary 1923 arena. However, the new stadium turned out to be a worthy receiver - it impresses with its size and level of technical equipment. Even on the outskirts of the stadium, an elegant arch, which is a carrier, catches the eye. It supports the roof, which "opens" with three petals. Even if you are not a fan of football, you will not be indifferent.

In addition, Wembley has repeatedly become a stage for world-famous stars. Today, especially for guests of London, tours of the stadium are held. The cost of a basic ticket is £19. The tour schedule is flexible. It depends not only on the type of ticket you have purchased, but also on current events. On average, tours start at 10 am. The last tour, as a rule, finds its audience by 2 pm.

Harrods department store

The most fashionable department store in London, unfortunately, is beyond the means of most guests, but a walk through it is quite comparable to going to a museum, because the luxury and aristocracy, which the interior literally screams about, are reminiscent of the decoration of royal residences. However, this is not far from the truth. Since the first third of the nineteenth century, Oscar Wilde, Princess Diana, Sigmund Freud, Elton John, Madonna and others have been regular customers of this department store.

However, in Harrods there is something besides design and brands - shows, festivals and cooking shows are regularly held here. Be sure to look here at Christmas - the extravaganza of the action taking place here is difficult to compare with anything else. The department store is open from 10 am to 8 pm on all days except Sunday. On Sundays it opens at half past 12 and closes at 6 pm.

Flea market in Portobello

Portobello Road is considered one of the most popular market streets in the world. It crosses the Notting Hill quarter horizontally, which means that more than three kilometers of open stalls, shops, tents and just street vendors await its guests. But this is not how he managed to win his name. The real Portobello begins on Saturday, when sellers and connoisseurs of antiques gather here.

The local antiques market is the largest in the world. It is noteworthy that three centuries ago there was a farm on this site, which bore the very poetic name of Portobello, which symbolized the victory over the Spanish city of the same name.

In the Victorian era, this area was built up with small houses - blue, red, lilac - and the urban landscape gradually began to take shape. Today you can wander around the market for hours. Here you can find everything from faded tickets for the Rolling Stones concerts to Meissen porcelain.

Brick Lane Flea Market

Shopping fans often ignore the presence of truly colorful places in London. street markets who dictate their fashion trends. And Brick Lane Market is one of them. The street where the market is located is part of the Bangladeshi community, which was once the Jewish ghetto. Such historical realities left their mark on the appearance of this place.

People come here for two things: curry and conceptual fashion. The local array of restaurants that serve this dish will amaze you. As for fashion, you can find everything here: from vintage clothes of expensive brands (which for some reason are sold by the Japanese) to vintage Art Deco magazines and everything related to high art. Photographers and artists often appear here, finding inspiration in the chaos and variegation of colors of this market.