Sights in London
There are so many things to see and do right in the city of London. There is something for everyone at little or no cost from museums to parks and landmarks. Take time to familiarize yourself with the area around the college. The tube, as it is called, is probably the most efficient means of transportation. Expect to explore on foot. Invest in comfortable shoes, a pocket map, and a guide book. Don’t be shy and ask questions if you get lost. People are most helpful in pointing you in the right direction.
Museums
British Museum, world’s oldest museum with collections from every continent.
Victoria and Albert Museum, collection of decorative art including everything from stained glass to sculpture.
National Gallery, over 2000 pieces of Western art.
Natural History Museum (pictured), made famous as a dinosaur museum set in beautiful Neo-gothic architecture.
Science Museum, a walk through technological history.
Madame Tussauds, a wax museum filled with celebrity figures.
Parks
Regent’s Park (pictured), a walk through rose gardens and boating on the lake.
Covent Garden, made popular as an all inclusive market.
Hyde Park, the most famous park with 340 acres.
St. James Park, the oldest park established in the 1530s.
Markets
Portabella, most fun on Saturdays with a full mile of designer clothes, crafts, and food
Camden Town, a stop for colorful jewelry, clothes, and organic food
Covent Garden, a stretch of shops and pubs that is a popular gathering place for friends
Historic Sites
Tower of London, a castle containing the Crown Jewels.
Houses of Parliament, Victorian Gothic architecture with over 1,000 rooms and Big Ben.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, designed by one of the world’s greatest architects, Christopher Wren, and a must see for any tourist.
Westminster Abbey, coronation site of British royalty.
Buckingham Palace, home of the queen with 775 rooms and Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Trafalgar Square (pictured), the center of London and towering monuments dedicated to the Battle of Trafalgar.
Shakespeare’s Globe, theatrical encounter with the renowned works of Shakespeare.
Marble Arch, close to the Speaker’s Corner where people may voice their opinions on an actual soapbox.
***A recommended guidebook is AAA London where you can find prices, locations, and descriptions.
