Beautiful architecture, iconic red buses, taxis, old lamp posts and a fusion of cultures. There is plenty to explore in this city; here are some favourites.
► Museums - there are plenty to visit, and most of them are completely free to enjoy. Take the time to appreciate the beautiful exteriors, as well as enrich your knowledge on natural history, science and art. Why not also take a walk down memory lane in the childhood museum, or see the renowned British museum. If you’ll have particularly young ones on your trip, the discovery centre is both exciting and educational.
► Kew Gardens - pack a picnic and wear your comfortable shoes because this is an all-day trip. It’s a refreshing experience from the noisy city scene. Explore glasshouses with plants and flowers from all over the globe. Take a moment to experience a piece of Japan in the Garden of ‘peace’, ‘activity’ and ‘harmony’. The Chinese pagoda is also a popular area to visit. Complete your day appreciating other historic buildings, the formal botanic gardens, and a stroll across the treetop walkway. Please be familiar with the rules and regulations, as only guide-dogs are permitted and no bicycles, skateboards etc. are allowed.
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Royal Parks - they are all breathtaking. Each park offers something a little different. You have beautiful greenery, boating, memorials, pretty fountains and floral arrangements. There’s also an abundance of wildlife, including swans, pelicans and deer.
► St.Paul’s Cathedral - this gorgeous, baroque church offers educational tours, exploring its history. It’s a lovely place to visit, regardless of faith.
► Theatres - London is home to an array of theatres; more very baroque and vintage architecture. Enjoy popular plays such as Shakespeare’s work, or give up some of your time to appreciate local talent.
► The London Dungeon - This is where things get a little more fun. “Enter at your own peril”. Under one roof, you have the opportunity to have a walkthrough experience of London’s dark past; from Jack the Ripper to Sweeney Todd, you’ll have both a humorous and frightening time. Although a tourist attraction, many Londoners take advantage of this unique trip which overpowers all your senses.
► Westfield Stratford City - The largest shopping mall in Europe, with over 250 shops, more than 65 restaurants, as well as a Vue cinema and All Star Lanes bowling. You have affordable as well as luxury fashion choices located indoors, and outdoors. Treat yourself to rich gelato, delicate crêpes or freshly-made pretzels. With all this and lounging space, Londoners often come here for leisure too.
► The O2 Arena - Many events/concerts are held here all year round. A few restaurants live here, as well as a Cineworld cinema and bowling alley. You can even get a chance to climb the dome!
► Winter Wonderland - Once Christmas season falls upon us, Hyde Park holds this annual event. It’s a cute fair filled with lights, music and rides. In addition to that, there are two types of *human* circuses - a short, family-friendly show, and a longer, more daring show for adults. Of course, there has to be an ice rink, an ice kingdom (made with real ice!), a giant wheel, marketplace and an opportunity to meet Santa.
