The place where the heart of Great Britain beats is, of course, called London. In this multi-million city of luxury and British tradition, you can find a huge number of attractions that can outshine others historical relics peace. Let's consider them in more detail.

The famous clock on the main tower

Sometimes tourists wonder where in London to look for Big Ben? The world-famous clock tower is located in the Palace of Westminster. The palace itself is the seat of both houses of the British Parliament.

Big Ben is considered a real gem of London architecture. The tower got its name thanks to the bell located in it. This bell strikes every hour, telling Londoners of the time.

The tower stretches to the sky at 96 meters in height. At its top is Observation deck, to which 334 steps lead.

Big Ben is still one of the largest clockworks in the world. His work began in 1859. For safety reasons, excursions for a wide range of visitors to Big Ben are not carried out, but it is still possible to view the tower up close.

Historic London Museum

In 1753 Parliament approved the founding of the British Museum. Its 94 galleries with expositions are devoted to history and archeology. The institution received the main collections from Earl Harley, doctor Sloan and antiquarian Cotton.

The British Museum has unusual workers - cats. Six cats there are approved and registered rat-catchers..

Colonial Britain, Africa and the East are only a small part of the directions in which the exhibits are presented in the museum. There are also many Greek relics and other European antiquities. The Russell Square tube station is located next to the museum.

The Queen's current palace

There are not many palaces left in the world where the royal family would live in real mode. Buckingham Palace is a pleasant exception here, and is also considered the current residence of the Queen of England.

Buckingham Palace Complex can be called a small town. Indeed, in addition to the main building with luxurious halls and presentable rooms, there is a post office, a police station and even a pub.

The palace has 775 rooms that serve 700 people. The total area of ​​the complex with a garden is 20 hectares.

Tours of the palace are held in August and September. The changing of the guard in front of the palace is an entertainment accessible to tourists at any time of the year. Near the palace is the metro station St James Park.

Westminster and its history

In the 11th century, Westminster Abbey was outside the center of London. Then Buckingham Palace was rebuilt nearby, and Westminster itself received an important political status.

Today, within the walls of this castle is the House of Lords, as well as the House of Commons..

Near Westminster there are a huge number of "royal" attractions. Near the former abbey there is now a metro station of the same name.

Free Speech Park

Hyde Park is considered a favorite place for Londoners. There they walk along the alleys, relax on the grass, and can also speak at a special podium to speak out. The only restriction during a speech can be swear words and calls for violence, and you can speak publicly on any topic.

There is Serpentine Lake in the park area. Swimming is allowed.

The park is located near Kensington Palace. Hyde Park is connected to the palace park by a common area.

ferris wheel to the millennium

The height of the "London Eye" or the main Ferris wheel in London is 135 meters. This wheel, resembling an eye from afar, has only 32 cabins with transparent windows, which can accommodate up to 800 people at a time.

The London Eye service is top notch. There you can order champagne and strawberries. It is also possible to rent a cabin for two.

The revolution of the huge wheel ends in 30 minutes. The wheel is located in the Lambert area.

Tussauds and wax figures in London

The most famous and modern wax museum, which was invented by Madame Tussauds, is located in London. It was in the heart of Britain that the Frenchwoman moved her collection to escape the war.

The museum displays figures of various celebrities and historical figures. All of them are made of wax and plastic with amazing precision. Many exhibits are animated.

The museum is located on Marylebone Rd. In this institution, at the entrance, visitors are greeted by the famous Madame herself, made of wax, of course, and many exhibits can be touched.

Holmes and his museum

Museum of the legendary literary character located in the house, whose number is determined as 239. Thanks to the concessions of the authorities, this house was nevertheless assigned the number from the books of Arthur Conan Doyle 221b.

In the museum building, Holmes and Watson's rooms reconstructed from books, as well as Mrs. Hudson's apartments, are located on three floors. On the fourth floor there is an exhibition of wax figures.

You can find Sherlock Holmes' modern house on London's Baker Street. Near the museum there is a metro station of the same name with the street.

The largest gallery in the UK

All the best art in London is collected in one place - in the London National Gallery. There you can see paintings from all over. Western Europe from the 12th century to the 20th century.

Today the gallery is located in the north of Trafalgar Square..

The new building of the gallery houses bars with excellent coffee. There you can buy books and posters in the gift shop. Tours with audio guides are organized for tourists.

One of the most famous streets

Piccadilly is mentioned more than once in numerous literary works. This street is the heart of Westminster. This avenue always looks lively, well-groomed and colorful.

The street got its name from a tailor who made piccadilly collars there..

This street has its own square and the Royal Academy. Both sides of Piccadilly are lined with trendy cafes and interesting shops.

City, Thames and architecture

The financial heart of London beats in the old part of the City. It is there that the Tower, the Mary Ax skyscraper, St. Paul's Cathedral are located.

City - a freaky combination architectural styles. Antiquity there harmoniously coexists with modern new buildings.

It is difficult to find residential buildings in the City, the London Stock Exchange, banks and offices are located there. The City is an area created not for life, but for work.

The most fashionable area

It so happened that Soho is one of the most expensive and fashionable parts of London. The area does not sleep even at night, it is there that the most reckless and extravagant parties are held.

In the 17th century, what is now Soho was a hunting ground. It is believed that the name of the area came from the hunting call "so-ho".

Soho has a huge number of bars. There is a gay quarter, as well as apartments where artists and creative bohemians like to live. Leicester Square Underground Station is located near the area.

Fortress on the banks of the Thames

The Tower is a real old fortress on the north bank of the Thames. After the construction, the fortress served as a defensive structure, then it was a mint and even a zoo.

The height of the towers of the Tower is 30 meters. Built an ancient fortress in 1078.

Today the Tower is a royal residence. There is a museum on the first floor of the fortress, where the iconic treasures of the British crown are exhibited. There is also an armory and a skating rink in the fortress, which is open from November until the end of winter.

London main bridge

The complex construction of the Tower Bridge is no less admirable than the views from its observation deck. When the bridge is raised for navigation, the pedestrian part of the structure remains untouched.

Today there is a museum on the ancient bridge. From Tower Bridge you can see the best city panoramas of London.

The bridge was commissioned in 1894. Since then, its 244 meters long structure has been used for traffic and pedestrians.

Theater Globe

The old and famous Globe Theater hosts performances and performances from April to October. The rest of the time there are guided tours.

The theater is a reconstruction of a theater building from the 16th century. Performances are shown in natural light. The theater has no seating and a thatched roof only partially covers half of the stage.

The Globe is located on Bankside Street. Despite its historical surroundings, there are always long queues at the box office.

Opera House of the Kings

Covent Garden is a luxurious stronghold of the Royal Opera in London. The royal ballet and the royal troupe perform there. The theater acquired the final architectural version in 1990.

The auditorium can accommodate approximately 2,200 people. The ballet of this theater is patronized by the Queen herself, and the cast is patronized by the Prince of Wales.

Covent Garden is located on Covent Garden Piazza. You can get to it by buses number 9, 13, 153 from Piccadilly Street.

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is not only a nice place for recreation, but also an interchange for many modes of transport. It is on this square that the main Christmas tree of the country is lit every year.

The square is named after the victory at Trafalgar. An event took place in 1805.

There are many interesting and unusual sights in this historic square. Nearby is the underground station "Charing Cross".

The best place to buy groceries

The highest quality and freshest products in London are only in the Borough Market building. The best chefs of fashionable restaurants in the capital are bought there for themselves, and not for their business. This indicates the excellent quality of farm products in the Borough Market.

The oldest market in London has been operating since the 13th century. It sells ready-made food made according to family recipes and the freshest meat, as well as fish, milk, cheeses and other gastronomic delights..

True English products are available for purchase on Wednesday and Thursday, as well as on Friday and Saturday. Trading in the market starts at 9 am, and unofficially ends at 3 pm. London Bridge station is located next to the market. From the metro to get to the market, you have to walk for 10 minutes.

The oldest zoo in the world

Londoners can be proud to be the first to offer visitors a trip to an excellent zoo, aquarium, insectarium and serpentarium.

The world's first zoo appeared in Great Britain in 1828. Today it has collected more than 16 thousand animals..

The oldest zoo was founded by Thomas Raffles. It is located in central London, next to Regent's Park tube station.

Skyscraper for the Olympic Games

The Shard glass skyscraper was built in 2012 before the start of the Olympic Games. The height of the skyscraper is 309 meters. There are 72 floors in the building.

From the 68th to the 72nd floor, the Shard turns into a giant observation deck.

A high-speed elevator takes tourists to the top of the skyscraper. In 2012, the Shard was considered the tallest European skyscraper. The shard is at 32 London Bridge Street.

Chinatown in London

Chinatown is a small metropolitan area inhabited predominantly by Chinese families. The Chinese have lived in the area since Hong Kong was a British colony.

The Chinese area is very bright and colorful. It has an Asian vibe and sells some of the best Chinese food in London.

Today, the area has evolved into a restaurant and shopping option. There are few residents from China who own apartments there, but shops and cafes can be found in abundance.

Regent's Park and its beauty

The classic royal park in the English style appeared thanks to Henry the Eighth's passion for hunting. Smooth alleys, geometric flower beds and a standard set of trees do not make this park boring, but rather give it an aristocratic charm.

A beautiful lake and 400 varieties of roses are the real highlight of the park.

Regent's Park opens unusually early - at 5 am. There is a place for walking and relaxing until late at night. Next to it is a metro station with the same name.

highgate cemetery

Sad and beautiful, the site is the resting place of many famous Londoners. The cemetery began to work in the Victorian era. Initially, it was built up with Gothic tombs.

Several centuries ago, Londoners believed that one could quite meet a vampire in this cemetery at night. The surroundings of this place are a little sinister, but they are distinguished by a special gloomy beauty. There is a cemetery on Swain's Ln.

Cathedral of All Saints

All Saints Church in London is over 1500 years old. This impressive building is located in the center of the capital, and pleases the eye with its dissimilarity to modern buildings.

The church was built in 675. Before this period there was a settlement of the Romans.

Brass engravings and Roman mosaics on the floor harmoniously connect the different stylistic eras that this church has experienced in its history. Wooden statues of the fifteenth century will be of particular interest to tourists, because it is difficult to imagine that a tree can keep its appearance for so long. The temple is located in the City next to the Tower Bridge.

Theater of one play

London a city with a wealthy cultural heritage, history, a city that once "played" the prestigious role of the capital of the world. Naturally, in cities of such a scale as London, there are much more striking sights than those mentioned below, but nevertheless, we will focus only on the ten most-most.

1. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the main attraction of the city, the official residence of the Queen, one of the few functioning royal palaces today. The palace and the adjacent garden cover an area of ​​20 hectares. Heads of foreign states are met in the palace, celebrations and dinners are held by Her Majesty. In total, Buckingham Palace has 775 rooms, there is also the Royal Art Gallery, open to the public.

2. Big Ben

world famous bell tower The Palace of Westminster is one of the most recognizable symbols of London. The tower was built in 1859, it was named after a large bell located inside the tower, behind the clock. Big Ben boasts the largest four-sided chiming clock in the world. The state of the watch mechanism is constantly monitored by many masters. Unfortunately, tourists are not allowed to enter the tower. These measures are related to the security of the facility. The residents of the city are celebrating the onset of the New Year with the battle of Big Ben.

3. Tower of London

The 900 year old fortress is not only a symbol of London, but of the entire United Kingdom. This famous medieval fortress"remembers" almost the entire history of England and therefore, it is not surprising that it is one of the most visited attractions in the world. The Tower was built as a defensive castle. At various times, it served as a prison, the residence of kings, an arsenal, an observatory and even a zoo. Today there is a unique museum complex here. Dungeons, living quarters, walls - all this atmosphere immerses you in the centuries-old history of England like nowhere else.

4. St. Paul's Cathedral

The round dome of St. Paul's Cathedral towers over London at the very high point town, on Langate Hill. The cathedral, which is the largest Anglican church in Europe, serves as the residence of the Bishop of London. The cathedral was officially opened in the autumn of 1708. Before it, in the same place, there were 4 more cathedrals at different times, but all of them were destroyed (three by fires, one during the Viking raid on London in 961). At the top of the cathedral tower there is an observation deck from which you can see great view on a city that is not inferior in terms of entertainment to the view from the London Ferris wheel. By the way, it was in this cathedral that Prince Charles and Princess Diana were married.

5. British Museum

The British Museum in London was founded in 1753 with the permission of Parliament. This place is the best gift for history lovers. museum exposition, total length 4 kilometers, occupies 94 galleries. It will take at least a few days to see all the exhibits. The British Museum has a huge collection of historical antiquities, documents and artifacts, as well as items from all over the world brought here during the reign of the British Empire. It is here that the richest collection from Ancient Egypt is kept. Widely represented ancient history Rome, Greece, Asia and Africa.

6. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of the city's favorite parks, famous as a venue for various protests and political rallies. The main local attraction is the so-called. Speakers' Corner, where everyone can express their vision of a particular situation in public. You can talk about anything your heart desires, with the exception of a call to violence and the use of obscene words. Festivals, processions and parades are held in the park. In the park there are paths for horseback riding, also located here. artificial lake Serpentine.

7. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is the main shrine of the nation, the place of coronation and the tomb of the English monarchs. Westminster Abbey is a majestic example of early English Gothic architecture, built over several centuries. The abbey has an organ, works of art, jewelry, and many sculptures. Almost all coronations of British monarchs have taken place here since 1066. In the Abbey rests the flower of the English nation - from kings to imperial celebrities, writers, poets and scientists.

8. Trafalgar Square

The square, built to commemorate the victory of the British fleet over the combined Spanish-French fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, is located in the heart of London. In the center of the square is its main attraction - the column of General Nelson. On New Year's Eve, the main Christmas tree of the country is set up on the square, which, according to a good tradition, is always sent by the Norwegians, as a token of gratitude for the assistance provided to them by Great Britain during the Second World War. Today, Trafalgar Square is a favorite place among political demonstrators and tourists.

9 London Eye

The London Eye is one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world, capable of lifting 800 people at a time to a height of more than a hundred meters. The wheel got its name due to the views from it at a distance of 40 km. In order for the wheel to please everyone even in the dark, its creators equipped the “eye” with a unique backlight. The wheel rotates very slowly and does not stop - passengers land "on the go". An exception is made only for the elderly and disabled.

10 London Underground

The London Underground, called The Tube, is not just a convenient way to get around - it really is a full-fledged landmark of the city. And this is not surprising, because the London Underground is the oldest of all underground systems in the world, as well as a very practical urban transport system. The City Underground, with its famous public address system and historic stations, is much more than just a convenient way to get around London.

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 the city's landmarks, but 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 established here ancient city Londinium. 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 is 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 the Norman conquest of 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 largest 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

Science Museum - 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. Considering the age of the institution, many of the exhibits have a very great 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

The National Gallery is an 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 the victory of Lord Horatio Nelson over Napoleon's navy at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The central monument of the square is a tall pillar 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 the London residence and the main workplace of the 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 areas in 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

The covered markets of Covent Garden are just 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 exhibits showcasing more than 500 years of history. maritime history and a Pallas Athena-style mansion known as the Queen's House. 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 - officially called the Royal botanical garden. It is located in South West London on south coast 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.

Articles in this place:

London Attractions attract many tourists. The capital of Great Britain is located in its southeast, at the mouth of the River Thames. The city with a population exceeding 8 million is one of the largest in the world. It is one of the leading financial centers of the planet.

Piccadilly Circus, 1946

City `s history

starting point history of the creation of the city of London it is generally accepted that the appearance in 43 AD. e. Romans on British Isles. At the end of the 1st century the Roman trading settlement acquired a fortress wall, beyond which the city did not cross for a whole millennium. With the fall of the Roman Empire, London also experienced desolation. Then the North Germanic tribes began to move here - the Angles, Saxons, Jutes, Frisians, who gradually suppressed the resistance of the local Celtic tribes of the Britons. The first signs of revival are noted with the beginning of the 7th century. For the next several centuries, the Normans (Vikings) and Anglo-Saxons alternately owned the city.

In 1066, the army of the Duke of Normandy, William the Conqueror, landed on the British Isles. Having defeated the Anglo-Saxons at the Battle of Hastings, he was crowned the first English king in London's new building, Westminster Abbey. Then a royal residence was built in the city, later called the Tower, the Palace of Westminster and a stone bridge. Over the next few centuries, the Anglo-Saxons and Normans (not to be confused with the Normans) merged into a single English nation.

Piccadilly Circus, 1972

In the Middle Ages, London experienced a brief French invasion, the plague of 1348 that wiped out half the population, and sack by rebellious peasants led by Wat Tyler. The decline was interrupted in the 16th century. This was facilitated by the defeat of rivals at sea - Antwerp, and especially Spain, whose "Great Armada" was defeated by the British in 1588. The country became the mistress of the seas.

Another blow to the city was dealt by a grandiose fire in 1666, which destroyed many medieval buildings. Burnt Cathedral of St. Paul was restored at the beginning of the 18th century, then landmark buildings were erected - Westminster Bridge and Buckingham Palace. Railway, the first subway (in 1863) and, especially, the sewerage (in 1865), which put an end to cholera outbreaks, gave a new impetus to the development of the city. Industrialization turned London into a major industrial center and the population passed the million mark.

The Victorian era (most of the 19th century) is the heyday of London. It was intensively built up, and the population reached 6 million. But many buildings were destroyed by German bombing at the beginning of World War II. The post-war period is characterized by large immigration from former colonies British Empire. And already in the XXI century. several ultra-modern structures were built in the city, which will be discussed below.

The main historical and archaeological museum of the British Empire

London Attractions

TO main classical architectural and historical sights of London relate.

• Westminster.
• Tower.
• Cathedral of St. Paul.
• British museum.

Tomb of Elizabeth I

Westminster

This historic district is the political center of Great Britain. Here are located top sights in london:

• royal residence - Buckingham Palace;
• Parliament sitting at the Palace of Westminster;
• Westminster Abbey;
• Trafalgar Square.

Inspection iconic places area can be started by taking the London Underground to the St James Park stop.

The parade of the Horse Guards and the colorful changing of the guard ceremony take place daily from 11 a.m. They were observed by almost everyone who visited London. But few of them saw the luxurious interiors of the palace. Collections of paintings from the royal collection are exhibited in the Gallery of the same name during the Queen's holidays in August and September from 10 am to 6 pm. Ticket price - 16.5 GBP (pound sterling).

The symbol of London is the Palace of Westminster with the bell tower Big Ben. It was successfully recreated in the 19th century. instead of the original building, which burned down in the Great Fire of 1666. On the opposite side, the palace is crowned by the Victoria Tower, through the gates of which the queen passes to deliver her throne speech in Parliament. Other traditions are honored as well. So, the Lord Chancellor is still sitting on a bag of wool, and parliamentarians who address the speaker must wear hats. The easiest way to get to the Palace of Westminster is by tube, getting off at Westminster or Victoria stations.

Cathedral Church of St. Petra is the official name. This outstanding monument of English Gothic was founded in 1065 and completed until the 16th century. The facade and interiors of the building compete in splendor. The cathedral is the place of coronations and burials of British kings. In the "Poets' Corner" - the graves (not always real) of famous Englishmen - Newton, Dickens, Shakespeare, Thackeray, Milton, Chaucer, Burns, Handel and others.

Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton

You can visit the cathedral for 20 GBP from 9:30 to 16:30, on Wednesday - until 19:00, and on Saturday - until 14:30. Sunday services are held for parishioners. The nearest tube stations are St James's Park or Westminster.

The central square of London was named in honor of the battle won by the English fleet near Cape Trafalgar. On a high column in the center is a 5-meter figure of the hero of the battle, Admiral Nelson. Around the statue are beautiful sculptures and fountains. In the corner of the square there is a model of the ship on which the admiral was mortally wounded. And from the monument to King Charles I, all London distances are measured. Near the square are Charing Cross, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square metro stations.

Traditional poppy field in front of the walls of the fortress

Other attractions

The palace and fortress in London's Tower Hamlets is a thousand years old. For a long time the building was a prison and even a place of execution of noble people, including kings. Some visitors say that they saw the ghosts of the executed here. The current Tower is a royal treasury, an armory and a residence for elite guests. Guardians of the building in luxurious uniforms are guides and living exhibits for visitors. Not far from the Tower is the bridge of the same name - a landmark of the British capital. It is especially beautiful in night illumination.

You can get to the Tower by metro to Tower Hill station or by buses No. 15, 42, 78, 100, RV1. Opening hours are from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m. (depending on the season), and on Sunday and Monday from 10 a.m. A regular entry ticket costs 25 GBP.

Eastern part of the Cathedral

Cathedral of St. Pavla is located in the City area. The construction was built according to the project of the architect Christopher Wren from 1675 to 1710. Outside, the grandiose triple dome 120 m high attracts the attention of tourists. Many surprising things can be seen inside - columns breaking to the ceiling, a false second floor, the famous Gallery of Whispers heard within a radius of 30 m, the best English organ. In the right tower is the main bell "Big Paul", the sound of which is carried for 37 km. Two prominent military leaders are buried in the cathedral - the Duke of Wellington and Admiral Nelson.

Tourists who have overcome 560 steps to the Golden Gallery are rewarded with a wonderful panorama of the city. You can get to the Cathedral by metro to St. Paul's. Opening hours - from 9:30 to 16:30, except for Sunday reserved for services. The ticket costs 14.5 GBP.

Many are interesting museums in london. The most famous - has been operating since 1753. The geography of its 7 million exhibits is incomparably wider than the name. In the Ancient Egypt section, the Rosetta Stone and the statue of Pharaoh Ramses II stand out. In the ancient Greek exposition, one can see, in particular, Parthenon marble slabs. The museum can be visited from 10:00 to 17:30 for free. And you can get to it by getting off at the Russell Square, Holborn metro stations, or by buses No. 7, 55, 19, 22b, 8, 38, 25, 98.

Museum building and entry line

Private museums

In London, there is the main wax museum, founded back in 1835 by a sculptor. In its exposition there are over a thousand well-known characters, classified by type of activity. The organizers did their best when creating the "Cabinet of Horrors". In it, in the semi-darkness, maniacs and death masks of those executed on the guillotine are presented. To enhance the impression, museum attendants in dark robes suddenly jump out of the darkness and grab the hands of visitors. Those of them who especially liked it here are given the opportunity to spend the night for 100 GBP.

To visit the museum, which is open from 10 to 17:30, you need to purchase a ticket for 28.8 GBP. And you can get here by metro to the Baker Street station, or by buses No. 13, 18, 27, 30, 74, 82, 113, 139 and 274.

Another famous museum is dedicated to Sherlock Holmes. Letters to the famous detective at 221B Baker Street are still coming. Now this apartment has also moved to the museum, located nearby - in building 239. The museum, which is open from 10:30 to 18 hours, can be visited by paying 6 GBP. Directions - by subway to Baker Street.

City Hall lobby

Modern architecture

In the current century, several buildings in the postmodern style have been built in London. Modern London architecture causes a lot of controversy. Adherents consider these buildings new sights, and opponents say that they spoil the architectural appearance of the city. Two buildings were built according to the designs of one of the founders of the high-tech style, architect Norman Foster. He explains the unusual shape of his buildings with environmental considerations.

The new building of London City Hall - City Hall, was built next to Tower Bridge. It was put into operation in 2002. The twisted facade of the 10-story building is reminiscent of a sliced ​​egg. The narrowness of the upper floors contributes to better illumination of the lower ones. There are no air conditioners in City Hall either: in summer the building is cooled by groundwater coming from a special well.

Mary Ax Tower

Foster's other creation is the 40-story City Tower, opened in 2004. The Gherkin's mesh structure has a maximum width of 57m at the 17th floor, narrowing to 25m at the very top. Green glass panels allow the sun's rays to pass freely, and the rounded design minimizes wind currents. A third of the building's glass panels are darkened, giving it a swirling effect. The nearest metro station is Aldgate. You can only get inside during Open House London days in September.

Skyscraper "Shard", reaching 310 m - the tallest building in Western Europe. The building, designed by the Italian Renzo Piano, has been operating since 2013. The name (“Shard of Glass”) fully reflects it appearance. The last 4 of the 72 floors are reserved for sky-high (in the truest sense of the word) viewing platforms for visitors.

It is better to purchase tickets in advance, after checking the weather forecast: heavy cloud cover can interfere with a long-range view.

The nearest metro station is London Bridge, buses No. 43, 48, 141, 149, 521. Visiting hours are from 10 to 18, and on Thursday-Saturday - until 21 hours. Ticket price - 26 GBP.

Evening on Leicester Square

Things to do in London

Evening relaxation in London

The British capital is interesting not only for its architectural and historical sights. Where to go in London at night? The most popular among tourists are several options.

Where can you go from London on a free day? Excursions are organized from the city to see nearby attractions. You can also visit them on your own.

• The famous Stonehenge (train to Salisbury, from there shuttle bus). There are no cafes in its vicinity, so you need to bring food with you. You have to pay 15 GBP for the ticket.
• Dover (by train from St Pancras station), where you can see the famous chalk cliffs, as well as ancient castle, a ticket for which costs 17 GBP.
• Windsor (Waterloo Station to Windsor & Eaton Riverside). The city castle is one of the royal residences. At 11 o'clock there is a changing of the guard. You can get inside from 10 am to 4 pm only if there is no royal family in it. The price is 15 GBP.
• Canterbury (by train from St Pancras or Waterloo East), where the main Anglican church, Canterbury Cathedral, is located. Price entrance ticket– 7 GBP.

No one will argue that London is one of the most popular points on the map among tourists; almost every traveler wants to visit this rainy and, perhaps, a little gloomy, but such an attractive city with a magical atmosphere. This is the capital of dreams, memorable at first sight for its unique character, color, expressed in every detail.

The banks of the Thames amaze with the number of interesting sights, because in order to form at least a superficial opinion about this wonderful metropolis, you will need to spend at least a week here.

Moreover, unlike some other cities that are invariably included in the list of must-see places in the world, London does not have a clearly defined center that would unite the main attractions on its territory. Here famous places scattered across various regions.

Add to list worth a visit places of the English capital, you can add not only museums, castles and other historical buildings, but also rich nature, picturesque parks, as well as modern buildings, for example, skyscrapers, striking in their originality and impressiveness.

Let us consider in more detail the objects that no self-respecting guest from another state should pass by.

One of the first historical buildings, which you definitely cannot bypass, is Big Ben. There is, perhaps, no traveler who has not seen the most famous clock in the world on postcards or stationery.

The construction of the tower took place under Queen Victoria in the middle of the 19th century, and its height reaches 97 meters. Since then, the clock has been faithfully counting the time, acting as a guide for all residents of London.

It should be mentioned that there is a widespread misconception regarding the name of the building. "Big Ben" is not the name of the legendary clock tower or the clock itself, it is the most impressive bell located in the tower.

This giant differs from five brothers in its striking weight - 13.5 tons. But due to the simplicity of the name, its easy perception, both visitors and locals often apply the name "Big Ben" to both the clock and the tower as a whole.

The official and correct name of the main symbol of the English capital is Elizabeth Tower. This honorary name was assigned only in 2012, and the occasion was the 60th anniversary of the Queen's reign. Until then, the name of St. Stephen's Tower was assigned to the tower.

Let us turn to the milestones of the existence of a historical object: before this building served as a prison intended for political prisoners - parliamentarians, whose opinion contradicted the views of the authorities. However, in fact, the tower practically did not fulfill its functions; in the entire history, only one prisoner was imprisoned within these walls.

IN popular culture the tower always finds its place. In 2012, the chimes gave a sign to the opening of the Olympics, and in the most famous films and even cartoons, the tower becomes the star of close-ups - "Flood", "Mars Attacks" and other Hollywood masterpieces.

And a number of cartoons even contain scenes that take place in Big Ben - "101 Dalmatians" or "Peter Pan".

As you know, Big Ben is an integral part, one of the towers of the grandiose Palace of Westminster, which is another major attraction. The history of the palace is full of tragedies - until the 14th century it was assigned the role of a royal residence, but fate prepared a surprise for it.

In 1834, a terrible fire broke out, causing the loss of most of the structure. There are also a few surviving fragments of the palace - Westminster Hall, where magnificent receptions were held, and the Tower of Jewels.

Only in the middle of the 19th century, a new building of the palace was built to replace the burnt-out apartments. Today, parliamentary sessions are held here. The style in which it was built modern palace, can be defined as Neo-Gothic.

Impressive characteristics that distinguish majestic building, - the total length of its corridors is about five kilometers, and the number of rooms almost reaches 1200.

Westminster Hall requires special attention, since it is not just one of the halls, but the most valuable monument of the Middle Ages, which preserved the spirit of those years and survived the fire.

The hall was created in the 11th century, it was luxurious, and the original project was rebuilt 300 years later: the walls were lined with stone, and wooden floors were added. I must say that not only this hall went through a monstrous fire, but also through the bombing of the Germans in 1941, because the neighboring hall was completely destroyed by them.

The dimensions of Westminster Hall cause awe - the height of the ceilings is 28 meters, and total area about 1800 sq.m. Not always, however, exclusively solemn receptions were held here, this room served until the end of the 19th century as a courtroom - it was here that the Supreme Court of the State pronounced a death sentence on a number of famous personalities, among which, for example, the thinker Thomas More .

The next point on the route of an inquisitive tourist is Westminster Abbey, which can be found to the west of the Palace of Westminster. Another, less popular, name of the building is St. Peter's Church.

The duration of the process of erecting this building in the Gothic style is striking - exactly 5 centuries, although there were short breaks. Statues of martyrs adorn the western façade of the majestic church.

Westminster Abbey can boast of the constancy of its functions - this is the only place where British monarchs ascend the throne, as well as the territory of their burial. In addition to royalty, the abbey also finds eternal rest for prominent Britons, whose work glorified England.

For example, in Poets' Corner you can find the burial places of Dickens, Chaucer and other literary geniuses. The graves of such famous scientists as Darwin and Newton are also located here. It is a great honor to find the last refuge here only for outstanding citizens.

Buckingham Palace

You can not ignore the residence of Elizabeth II - the magnificent Buckingham Palace. It was founded in 1703 and named after the original owner, the Duke of Buckingham.

There are more than 600 rooms inside the palace. The northern part of the castle is occupied by the current queen and her husband. Tourists can instantly determine whether the monarch is present at the residence or has temporarily left it by the British flag, which either flutters over the structure or falls.

For those who like to watch the changing of the guard of honor, such an opportunity is provided daily for half an hour before noon on the palace square.

Fortress Tower

The next most important point is the Tower fortress, which plays the role of another main symbol of the capital. The structure is ancient, the date of construction is 1078.

Unlike Westminster Abbey, which is permanent in its purpose, the old Tower has been a fortress, a royal residence, an observatory, a zoo, a mint, and a prison. It was the latter that made it an infamous historical point.

Second World War became the period of the return of the Tower to the prison past - the Germans taken prisoner were kept here, including Rudolf Hess.

At present, the complex includes several buildings, including the museum of jewels and the armory, which are the most significant.

The bridge with the same name - Tower Bridge - is located near the fortress. It was in honor of her that he acquired such a name. The bridge was opened in 1894. This is a large-scale Gothic-style steel movable structure spanning the River Thames.

It is a Tower Bridge structure of two towers (65 meters each), which are connected by a passage. The crossing wings can be raised up to 83 degrees to allow large vessels to pass under the bridge.

An interesting fact is that the bridge is extremely convenient for pedestrians due to special paths that are provided even at the time of its breeding.

On the stairs located in each tower, you can climb to a height of 44 meters and move to the other side of the river, despite the wings fixed at an angle. Also on the bridge there is an observation deck, which is located in the upper part of the bridge. From there, tourists can admire the magical English city.

Trafalgar Square

Let us now turn to the famous squares. Most known to travelers- Trafalgar Square. This attraction is located directly in the center of the capital. You can find the square by the column installed on it, topped with a statue of Admiral Nelson.

The height of the column is 44 meters, and gray granite served as the material for its creation. The square is now home to London's main Christmas tree every year. Read about here.

piccadilly circus

Another old square is Piccadilly Circus, its history goes back over 200 years. Here you can find a famous cafe called "Royal", which served as a gathering place for creative personalities - artists, poets. The main highlight of the square is the fountain crowned with a statue of the Greek god Anteros.

Another interesting detail is the underground theater hall with 600 seats (Criterion Theatre), which has been operating since 1874. Also, some tourists come here, wanting to visit the museum "Cupids of London". It's already modern cultural point which appeared in 2007.

An interesting fact about Piccadilly Circus is one of the first squares where the first neon signs found their place more than 100 years ago.

Madame Tussauds museum

Let's move on to museums. London is famous all over the world, thanks to the exposition that allows not only to take pictures, but also to touch the stars of show business, historical figures, royalty - this is Madame Tussauds Museum. This wonderful place is located on Marylebone Road.

The exhibition has more than four hundred realistic exhibits, including personalities such as Michael Jackson, the Beatles and other people who left their bright mark on history. The skill with which the figures are made is often just numb, since it is quite difficult to distinguish them from living prototypes.

There is in this, harmless at first glance, the museum and a corner for those who like to tickle their nerves. This is the Chamber of Horrors - a room where images of British criminals who have done monstrous deeds for the past 5 centuries are collected.

Sherlock Holmes Museum

It is impossible not to pay attention to this museum on Baker Street. It is clear to everyone that this exposition is dedicated to the favorite literary hero of the inhabitants of England - Sherlock Holmes. The building that houses the museum was built in 1815. It has four floors, the first of which contains a souvenir shop and a hall.

On the second, tourists can find the detective's room and the living room, and the third is occupied by the chambers of Mrs. Hudson and Dr. Watson. The last floor serves as a platform for wax figures of the main characters of works about Holmes.

The situation is recreated with particular accuracy - the British carefully approached the details, placing in the chambers a violin, a detective's smoking pipe, as well as other things reflecting his hobbies. The tourist can even spend time by the fireplace in Sherlock's favorite armchair, immersed in an atmosphere of carelessness and disorder, creating the effect of the owner's recent presence in the room.

Residential complex One Hyde Park

Finally, we note the modern sights of the city. Travelers are often attracted by the unattainable and luxurious. One of these places is a luxury residential complex located in the Knightsbridge area. Of course, there are no special beauties or historical atmosphere to be found here.

This complex consists of four separate buildings made of reinforced concrete and glass. However, the complex gained world fame due to its cost. The most expensive apartment on the planet is located here, the owner bought it for $220 million.

Luxurious housing, unfortunately, is the prerogative of only billionaires. A tourist can only walk around the prestigious quarter and take a photo against its background.

Naturally, these are not all the sights of London, but only a minimum that every tourist must visit. In addition to the above, plan a visit to the National Art Gallery, famous for its collection of works by da Vinci, Monet, Rubens and other world-famous artists.

Take a walk along the Avenue of Stars - an analogue of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which keeps the handprints of famous Englishmen. Fans of entertainment and shopping should head to the Soho area.