London, England, traces its origins back to Roman times when it was founded as Londinium. Over the centuries, it grew into a major hub of commerce and culture, evolving through medieval grandeur, the expansion of the British Empire, and enduring challenges like the Great Fire and World War II bombings. Today, London stands as a global center of finance, culture, and history, boasting iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey, all of which reflect its rich and diverse heritage.
The phrase “There is something for everyone,” is used to describe a lot of cities. But when it comes to London, there is nothing that could be more true. Steeped in history and adorned with iconic landmarks, London offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to all interests. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, lover of green spaces, or sports, you can find it here.
The Same
The twins first went to London together for their 30th birthdays hitting the major attractions, but later went back separately and did it a little differently with their family, but revisited their favorites.
The Tower of London
A Fortress with a Rich History: Standing proudly on the banks of the River Thames, the Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of centuries of British history. This historic fortress has served various purposes over the years, from a royal palace to a prison. Be sure to marvel at the Crown Jewels housed within and explore the Tower’s fascinating exhibits that bring the past to life.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, one of London’s most iconic landmarks, is a combined bascule and suspension bridge spanning the River Thames. You can get amazing views of it from the Tower of London.
Completed in 1894, the bridge is renowned for its distinctive twin towers connected by walkways, which offer panoramic views of London. The bridge is not just a marvel of engineering but also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which includes the Victorian engine rooms, and walk across the high-level walkways, offering stunning views of the city and the Thames.
The British Museum
Home to a vast collection of artifacts spanning centuries and civilizations, the British Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. From the Rosetta Stone to the Elgin Marbles, the museum’s exhibits offer a journey through the ages, showcasing the cultural richness of civilizations worldwide. It is one of many free museums in London.
Buckingham Palace
No visit to London is complete without witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. The official residence of the British monarch, this iconic palace is an architectural marvel. While you’re there, stroll through St. James’s Park and enjoy the regal atmosphere that surrounds this historic site.
- Changing of the Guards: This iconic event takes place daily during the summer months and every other day during the rest of the year, typically starting at 11:00 AM. During the ceremony, the Old Guard, responsible for guarding the palace, is replaced by the New Guard. The process begins with a parade of soldiers from the New Guard, who march from their barracks to Buckingham Palace. Accompanied by a military band playing traditional and popular music, the guards perform a series of intricate maneuvers. The ceremony culminates in a formal exchange of duties between the Old and New Guards in the forecourt of the palace.
The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
A silhouette synonymous with London, the Houses of Parliament and the iconic Big Ben clock tower stand proudly along the River Thames. Though currently undergoing renovations, these landmarks remain a stunning testament to the city’s architectural grandeur. Take a leisurely stroll along Westminster Bridge for breathtaking views and photos.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey, located in the heart of London, is a stunning Gothic church with over a thousand years of history. This iconic site has been the venue for numerous royal coronations, weddings, and funerals, including the crowning of every British monarch since William the Conqueror in 1066. It is also the final resting place of many notable figures, including monarchs, poets, scientists, and politicians, such as Elizabeth I, Sir Isaac Newton, and Charles Darwin. We took a tour and it was like everywhere you looked or stepped was a plaque marking a final resting place of someone famous.
The abbey’s architecture is a masterpiece, featuring intricate stone carvings, beautiful stained glass windows, and the magnificent Henry VII Chapel. Visitors to Westminster Abbey can explore its rich history, view the Coronation Chair, and walk through the Poets’ Corner, where many of England’s literary greats are commemorated. This historic and cultural landmark continues to play a vital role in the religious and ceremonial life of the United Kingdom.
Abby Road
This iconic street in the St John’s Wood neighborhood is forever etched in popular culture thanks to the legendary album cover of The Beatles’ “Abbey Road.” As you stand at the famous zebra crossing, there’s an indescribable thrill in retracing the steps of John, Paul, George, and Ringo, captured in that iconic photograph. Visitors often take turns recreating the album cover, capturing a moment frozen in time. The nearby Abbey Road Studios, where many timeless Beatles songs were recorded, adds to the aura. The graffiti-covered walls outside bear witness to the global impact of this musical landmark.
Day Trip to Stone Hedge, Windsor Castle, & Bath
This three attraction full day tour is offered by several tour companies & is the perfect combination to explore outside of London.
- Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument that has intrigued and mystified visitors for generations. The towering stone circles, set against the vast Salisbury Plain, invite contemplation about their purpose and origin. Explore the visitor center to unravel the mysteries surrounding Stonehenge’s construction and significance, and marvel at the ancient engineering marvel that continues to captivate imaginations.
- Windsor Castle, known as the The Queen’s Residence is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor has been a royal residence for over 900 years. Walk through the State Apartments adorned with opulent furnishings, visit St. George’s Chapel, the final resting place of numerous monarchs, and witness the Changing of the Guard—an age-old ceremony that adds a touch of pomp and ceremony to your visit.
- Bath is famous for its Roman-built baths and stunning Georgian architecture. The Roman Baths, a well-preserved ancient bathing and socializing complex, transport visitors back in time to the era of Roman Britain. Stroll through the charming streets lined with honey-colored buildings, visit the iconic Bath Abbey, and relax in the elegant Pump Room. The city’s rich history and cultural charm make it a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination.
British Pubs
British pubs in London offer a quintessentially English experience, blending history, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere. Many London pubs boast centuries-old histories, having hosted famous patrons and events over the years. They offer a variety of traditional ales, beers, and hearty pub fare, including classics like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and Sunday roasts. Here are some of the notable ones we visited:
- The George is a historic pub that dates back to the medieval era. Originally a coaching inn, it has been serving patrons for centuries and remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy a variety of ales, beers, and classic British pub fare while soaking in the rich history and unique ambiance of this iconic establishment. Famous visitors include Charles Dickens, and William Shakespeare.
- The Coach & Horses: Located in Soho, this pub is renowned for its 18th-century charm and connection to famous figures like William Hogarth, and Richard Brinsley Sheridan. The pub remains a beloved spot for its traditional atmosphere and historical significance.
- The Grenadier: Known for its authentic British pub experience, it offers a glimpse into London’s past with its historical decor and storied past. Famous visitors include Duke of Wellington and Sir Winston Churchill.
- Reform Social & Grill is a stylish and traditional British pub. The pub features an extensive menu with British classics, such as fish and chips, as well as a selection of modern dishes. Its interior combines traditional pub decor with contemporary touches, creating a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. We headed straight off our flight and enjoyed a few pints and some yorkshire pudding while we waited for our hotel room to be ready.
Local Cuisine
London, England, boasts a diverse and dynamic culinary scene that reflects its multicultural population and rich history. As a major city, you can literally find anything you are looking for. However, we tried to stick to British classics. When visiting London, England, there are several iconic dishes and culinary experiences that you must try to get a taste of the city’s diverse food scene.
- Fish and Chips: A quintessential British dish consisting of deep-fried battered fish (usually cod or haddock) served with chunky fries (chips). Enjoy it with malt vinegar and tartar sauce.
- Afternoon Tea: Experience the tradition of afternoon tea, which includes a selection of finger sandwiches (such as cucumber and smoked salmon), freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of cakes and pastries. Many hotels and tea rooms in London offer this delightful experience.
- Full English Breakfast: A hearty breakfast featuring eggs (fried or scrambled), bacon, sausage, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. Black pudding (blood sausage) and hash browns are often included as well.
- Pie and Mash: Enjoy a traditional pie (such as steak and kidney or chicken and mushroom) served with mashed potatoes and a rich gravy. This comforting dish has roots in London’s working-class history.
- Roast Dinner (Sunday Roast): Typically enjoyed on Sundays, this meal features roasted meat (beef, lamb, or chicken) served with roasted potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, seasonal vegetables, and gravy. It’s a comforting and hearty meal.
- Curry: London has a vibrant Indian cuisine scene, so don’t miss trying a curry. Whether it’s Chicken Tikka Masala (a British invention), Lamb Rogan Josh, or Vegetable Biryani, you’ll find a wide range of delicious options in places like Brick Lane and Southall.
- We ate at I M L I and really enjoyed it.
- Pies: Aside from pie and mash, London offers a variety of savory pies, such as steak and ale pie, chicken and leek pie, and vegetarian options. Check out specialty pie shops or pubs known for their pie selections.
- Street Food: Explore London’s vibrant street food scene with markets like Borough Market, Camden Market, and Southbank Centre Food Market. Sample dishes like gourmet burgers, falafel wraps, artisanal pizzas, and international street food favorites.
The DINKs
Since my husband had not previously visited we still hit up all my favorites from my first trip and I truly enjoyed seeing it all again. We spent the remainder of the time in pubs or outdoors exploring.
Walk around viewing the historic buildings
Architectural gems that have withstood the test of time – We enjoyed walking the streets and reading the historical markers of all the famous people including writers and politicians that lived in the beautiful old homes.
HydePark
Escape the urban hustle and bustle by spending a leisurely afternoon in Hyde Park. This expansive green space provides a serene retreat where visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the Serpentine Lake, wander through the Rose Garden, or simply relax under the shade of ancient trees. Sometimes we purposely chose to walk through Hyde Park on our way to another attraction just because it was so peaceful.
The Family
We too spent a lot of our time revisiting what I had seen on my 30th birthday trip. The kids really loved the Tower of London especially the reenactments & the changing of the horses but had more fun in the park then seeing Buckingham Palace. We enjoyed high tea or “The tea party.” A couple days in London was plenty for us.
Summary
London, England, stands as one of the world’s most iconic cities, renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and global influence. From its origins as a Roman settlement called Londinium to becoming the capital of the British Empire, London has evolved into a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern innovations.
London’s influence extends beyond its borders, shaping literature, music, fashion, and finance on a global scale. Its diverse neighborhoods, from trendy Shoreditch to historic Greenwich, offer a mosaic of experiences that cater to every interest and passion. Today, London continues to evolve while honoring its past, making it a city where history, culture, and innovation converge to captivate visitors from around the world.
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