A Couple Days in London

City of London

Attraction | "Out & About in London"

Quote:

During a two-week trip to the UK, we were able to spend a weekend in London. This is quite a short time for such a large city, but luckily the weather was beautiful and allowed us to get around to many of the highlights. Since I've already talked in detail in subsequent reviews in this trip journal about some of our favorite places in the city (St. James Royal Park, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Eye of London), I will just wrap up the journal with an overview of some of the other sites we were able to see, and I feel are worth at least taking a stroll by when your in London.PARLIAMENT SQUAREParliament Square is notably one of the more iconic areas in London, with the famous clo...Read More

During a two-week trip to the UK, we were able to spend a weekend in London. This is quite a short time for such a large city, but luckily the weather was beautiful and allowed us to get around to many of the highlights. Since I've already talked in detail in subsequent reviews in this trip journal about some of our favorite places in the city (St. James Royal Park, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Eye of London), I will just wrap up the journal with an overview of some of the other sites we were able to see, and I feel are worth at least taking a stroll by when your in London.

PARLIAMENT SQUARE
Parliament Square is notably one of the more iconic areas in London, with the famous clock tower "Big Ben" proudly standing above the River Thames. Of course, although we weren't able to really explore this area with the due time it requires, it was fascinating to just see it in person and get a small sense of the historic decisions made here throughout centuries. Located in the heart of the city along the river, so many important structures face this square like the Palace of Westminster, House of Commons, Westminster Abbey, and the large state of Winston Churchill.
*For one of the favorite photo ops among tourists, find one of the many iconic red telephone booths and pose beside it with Big Ben in the background.

DOWNING STREET
Home to the famous #10 Downing Street, this gated avenue is where the English Prime Minister resides. Just a short walk from the main roundabout in Parliament Square, it's worth a quick jaunt over to see the guards and possibly catch a glimpse of a dignitary. For over two hundred years this has been the address for a few senior cabinet members. The row is a group of 2-story stone and brick townhouses.
*This is the site where many political demonstrations are held (passing through Parliament Square and past the home of the cabinet members. We witnessed a large pro-Muslim demonstration during our visit.

TRAFALGAR SQUARE
In the central part of the city, you'll come across another one of London's more famous squares - that of Trafalgar. The center of the square is marked by Nelson's Column and other fountain, sculptures, and pieces of art can be seen here. The name came from a famous battle during the Napoeonic Wars. The square is home to numerous celebrations throughout the year including the large Christmas tree erected annually with a ceremony hailing the British victory over the Nazis in WWII. Historic political demonstrations have also taken place here over the years, including the notorious "Bloody Sunday".
*Be sure to expect crowds, although it is very spacious and wasn't extremely hard to walk around in while we were there, as Trafalgar Square is one of the top tourist attractions in the world with over 15 millions visitors a year.

RIVER CRUISE
After walking our legs sore trying to get around the city, seeing the sites, climbing on and off subways in the "Underground", and trecking around parks, we decided to take it easy and enjoy the ride...on a Thames River Cruise. Many companies offer leisurely cruises up and down the river for tourists (while there also are faster commuter ferries for those in more of a hurry). We jumped aboard one from near the Tower of London, and enjoyed the ride under the Tower Bridge, London Bridge and others, up past the House of Parliament and Big Ben, and watched the sun go down over the city.
*For those on a budget interested in cruising the river, look for the Woolwich Ferry which offers free passage! Read Less

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on March 22, 2025

City of London
East Central London
London, England

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Westminster Abbey

Attraction | "A Walk Through Westminster"

Quote:

Notably, one of the most famous churches in all of Europe is that of Westminster Abbey. More formally known as The Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster,this striking Gothic church has been the place of hundreds of historic ceremonies over the centuries.When you visit London, this abbey will be one of the more popular sites to see, and luckily it's located quite conveniently near the Parliament building, Downing Street, and Big Ben. Besides the Royal gardens surrounding the area of Buckingham palace, this area of the city was one of my favorites. The open space of intersections and graveled malls for walking, the vast area near Westminster Abbey allows visitors an excellent view of...Read More

Notably, one of the most famous churches in all of Europe is that of Westminster Abbey. More formally known as The Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster,this striking Gothic church has been the place of hundreds of historic ceremonies over the centuries.

When you visit London, this abbey will be one of the more popular sites to see, and luckily it's located quite conveniently near the Parliament building, Downing Street, and Big Ben. Besides the Royal gardens surrounding the area of Buckingham palace, this area of the city was one of my favorites. The open space of intersections and graveled malls for walking, the vast area near Westminster Abbey allows visitors an excellent view of the concentrated area of the city where so many historic and recent activity has happened.

As you walk up towards the abbey from across the street in Parliamentary Square you'll see a large statue of Winston Churchill standing proudly over the lawn. Look at him with the government building behind to get an idea in your mind about the political side of the nation, but then turn to immediately see a large cathedral behind you and grasp how closely intertwined religion was with the politics for so many years.

Founded in the 600s according to tradition, and the original stone abbey built in the 1000s, this abbey went through various changes through the years from the Romanesque / Norman style, to the Gothic, with additions of cloisters and towers, facades, and a narthex added all the way into the 19th century. Many coronation and royal wedding ceremonies took place here and many royals are buried in the abbey's tombs. More recently, this church was where the funeral for Princess Diana took place.

As a visitor to the church, you'll have to pay an admission charge that is one of the highest fees I've paid for a church visit in all of Europe. With this admission ticket, though, you'll have access to most of the grounds including the interior highlights of the decorated transepts, altar, St. Edward's Shrine, Great Cloisters and Chapter House. Henry VIII's Lady Chapel and the Pyx Chamber. Also, several other sites are included, like the College Garden ( a lovely manicured walk-about garden in the back), and the St. Caterine's Chapel Garden. There is also a museum for relics and a closer look at the Abbey's history which admission is included in your ticket price.

Before leaving, check out the gift shop for souvenirs and as you walk back out into the lawn, try to grasp the significant happenings that these walls have witnessed.

• www.westminster-abbey.org
• 20 Dean's Yard, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA
• 020 7222 5152
• Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9.30am - 4.30pm, Wednesday
9.30am - 7.00pm, Saturday 9.30am - 2.30pm
• Admission £15.00 (discounts for children, families, groups) Read Less

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on March 22, 2025

Westminster Abbey
20 Dean's Yard
London, England SW1P 3PA
+44 (20) 7222 5152

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London Eye (Millennium Wheel)

Attraction | "High Above the City"

Quote:

While looking out over the skyline of old London town, there's a good mix of historic and more modern buildings. There's the famous Tower of London near the iconic Tower Bridge. Plus most people think of Big Ben as one of London's symbols. But just 10 years ago a new eye-popping structure was added to the horizon. That of the "London Eye'.More formally titled The Merlin Entertainments London Eye, this huge ferris wheel used to hold the record for highest in the world, but has now been surpassed. Erected in 1999, and opened to the public in March 2000, the London Eye just celebrated its 10th anniversary and is one of Europe's most popular paid attractions with over 30 millions visitors to d...Read More

While looking out over the skyline of old London town, there's a good mix of historic and more modern buildings. There's the famous Tower of London near the iconic Tower Bridge. Plus most people think of Big Ben as one of London's symbols. But just 10 years ago a new eye-popping structure was added to the horizon. That of the "London Eye'.

More formally titled The Merlin Entertainments London Eye, this huge ferris wheel used to hold the record for highest in the world, but has now been surpassed. Erected in 1999, and opened to the public in March 2000, the London Eye just celebrated its 10th anniversary and is one of Europe's most popular paid attractions with over 30 millions visitors to date.

Even though it stands out quite a bit from the other structures dotting the skyline, in my opinion its a very interesting and fun addition. As it's architecturally intriguing and painted white it makes a statement along the River Thames. Along the wheel there are 32 sealed and air-conditioned capsules which hold up to 25 people each. Seats are provided within although passengers are permitted to walk around freely to look out the full glass capsule walls. It's said that a Mini Cooper car can fit into each one.

The rotation is quite slow and never really stops, but as it's slow enough that guests can climb aboard an empty capsule at it moves past the entry platform. One full revolution of the wheel takes about 30 minutes. Offering unparalleled views over London this is a unique visit to see and experience.

For an interesting group or party idea, look into renting a private capsule for a few hours to house a special meeting, party, or picnic in the sky. The London Eye also hosts regular special events from fireworks on New Year's Eve, to celebrity parties, Many people plan small weddings above the city, as well as corporate get-togethers.

• www.londoneye.com
• Minster Court, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7JB
• 0870 990 8881
• Open Daily 10am - 8 or 9pm depending on season
• Standard Admission £17.88 (discounts for children, seniors, families) Read Less

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on March 19, 2025

London Eye (Millennium Wheel)
Westminster Bridge Road
London, England SE1 9TA
+44 (870) 500 0600

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Tower of London

Attraction | "London's Most Famous Tower"

Quote:

During a quick weekend trip to London, we were able to see some of the main sites around this large city. One of the famous and more historic sites of London is the Tower of London.Not really a tower, but more of an entire fortress structure, the Tower is rich in history and intrigue. More formally titled "Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress", which to me is a bit more descriptive, the Tower is located on the north bank of the Thames River on the eastern side of the city. Propped on Tower HIll, this area is also quite well-known for the Tower Bridge that crosses right at the heart of the fortress. The Tower Bridge is the iconic bridge that many people wrongly call the London Bridge (wh...Read More

During a quick weekend trip to London, we were able to see some of the main sites around this large city. One of the famous and more historic sites of London is the Tower of London.Not really a tower, but more of an entire fortress structure, the Tower is rich in history and intrigue.

More formally titled "Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress", which to me is a bit more descriptive, the Tower is located on the north bank of the Thames River on the eastern side of the city. Propped on Tower HIll, this area is also quite well-known for the Tower Bridge that crosses right at the heart of the fortress. The Tower Bridge is the iconic bridge that many people wrongly call the London Bridge (which is a few bridges to the west).

The first structure to be built on the grounds was the White Tower,built in 1078 by William the Conqueror. Throughout the next few centuries more and more buildings were added, and the main use of the entire "Tower" was a fortress, palace, and prison. It appears as a stereotypical castle with the stone plain exterior,various towers, and variegated upper walls. There was a moat that encircles the entire place which is now dry, and a stone bridge.

Today the Tower is mainly a tourist attraction, and a wonderful example of early English architecture. The historic stories one can learn about this place are unending. The galleries here now hold the British Crown Jewels, a huge collection of weapons from the Royal Armories collection, and a piece of the Roman fortress. Many of the species of animals at the London Zoo came from the Tower's Royal Menagerie established in the 13th century which kept many exotic animals.

Be sure to get a photo with one of the famously dressed-in-red Beefeaters who guard the tower and today act more as tour guides. See the Traitors Gate where many famous dignitaries entered, like Anne Boleyn. Learn about the many trials, executions, and tortures that took place here, as well as maybe catch a glimpse of the ghosts that are said to wander the halls still.

Definitely one of the most historic and fascinating places in London in my opinion. Don't miss getting to walk through history.

• http://www.hrp.org.uk/Toweroflondon/
• Tower Hill,EC3N 4 London
• 0844 482 7777
• Open Tu-Sa 9am-5:30pm, Su-Mo 10am-5:30pm
• Admission £17.00 (discounts for children, groups, families) Read Less

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on March 19, 2025

Tower of London
Tower Hill
London, England EC3N 4AB
+44 (207) 709 0765

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St. James's Park and Green Park

Attraction | "London's Oldest Royal Park"

Quote:

During a weekend trip to London while on vacation in the UK, we were lucky to have been blessed with some of the most glorious weather possible. It was even during December, so quite cold, but the skies couldn't have been clearer. So for such a beautiful day as that, we had to be outside, and where better than one of London's most beautiful parks.St. James Park is located next to Buckingham palace is is the oldest in the collection of "Royal Parks of London". It spans over 58 acres and is teeming with a huge variety of flowering plants, trees, and waterfowl. We walked past the Palace first, and then meandered into the garden where our paced slowed significantly as there was so much beauty ...Read More

During a weekend trip to London while on vacation in the UK, we were lucky to have been blessed with some of the most glorious weather possible. It was even during December, so quite cold, but the skies couldn't have been clearer. So for such a beautiful day as that, we had to be outside, and where better than one of London's most beautiful parks.

St. James Park is located next to Buckingham palace is is the oldest in the collection of "Royal Parks of London". It spans over 58 acres and is teeming with a huge variety of flowering plants, trees, and waterfowl. We walked past the Palace first, and then meandered into the garden where our paced slowed significantly as there was so much beauty and quietness to take in. There's a small lake in the park which houses two smaller islands. These small areas of land are usually covered in ducks, swans, geese, and other birds.

Throughout the years since this land's initial purchase by Henry VIII in 1532, the park has gone through many changes, from a complete overhaul by James I in 1603 where the entire area was drained, restocked, landscaped and exotic animals were added. Upkept today in royal fashion, this park is a great escape from the bustling city streets, and offers many grassy malls and benches on which to linger.

The views from inside the park are amazing. Looking towards the southwestern end, the Buckingham Palace rises from along the hanging willows and flowering trees. Towards the other end one can see the London Eye towering above the landscape in the distance.

If you need a light lunch or snack, stop by "Inn The Park" a small restaurant offering sit down or take-out service in a sustainable "green" new building. Towards the western end, there's also a lovely playground area for kids. Be sure to watch the feeding of the pelicans everyday at 2:30pm. These birds are extremely massive in size and yet graceful. During the warmer months there are daily concerts from various bands and also guided tours of Duck Island.

• Birdcage Walk Londra SW1, United Kingdom
• Open Mon-Sat 9am-6pm
• http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/st_james_park/
• Free Admission Read Less

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on March 18, 2025

St. James's Park and Green Park
Between Green Park and Piccadilly Circus
London, England W1/SW1
+44 (207) 930 1793

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London Journals

City of London

Westminster Abbey

London Eye (Millennium Wheel)

Tower of London

St. James's Park and Green Park

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