Big Ben
Big Ben is the name given to the large bell at the top of the clock tower in the Palace of Westminster. However, the English use the term more generally to refer to the tower. It is one of the symbols of the British capital and a must-see tourist attraction. The 96-metre high clock tower was built between 1843 and 1859, and renamed "Elizabeth Tower" in 2012 in honour of Queen Elizabeth II, who celebrated her Diamond Jubilee.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is the most famous religious monument in London. It is the burial place for kings and queens of England as well as other prominent figures. It has also been the coronation place for almost every monarch in the country. Construction began in the 13th century and took almost 300 years. Since 1985, the building has been a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is a must-see for history lovers.
The London Eye
The London Eye is a 135 metre high Ferris wheel on the banks of the Thames. It was opened to celebrate the year 2000, which also earned it the nickname 'Millennium Wheel'. If you want to see London from a different perspective, take a seat in one of the attraction's gondolas. With Westminster and Big Ben close by, the London Eye offers an exceptional view of London. And to make the most of the illuminated scenery, the wheel is lit up at night.
The Soho district
Soho is the smallest district of the British capital. Known for its social mix, it is home to London's Chinatown, a stone's throw from the great square of Trafalgar Square, and many gay establishments. Ideal for going out, the area is full of bars and nightclubs, as well as concert halls and cinemas. For a lively London night out, this popular area is the best option.
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is a popular tourist spot, and also popular with locals. This road junction has a square where a fountain with an angel of Christian charity is located. And above all, the originality of this place is the set of illuminated advertising signs that remind us of the famous Times Square in New York. The area is vibrant. It is home to Oxford Street, a long adjoining street known for its many shops. A shopper's paradise!
The British Museum
If there was only one museum in London, this would be it. The British Museum is the most visited tourist site in England, with over 6 million admissions per year. Open to the public since 1749, it is a veritable goldmine dedicated to the history and culture of man. Its collections are made up of more than 7 million objects from all continents. This museum is free for all, so it is not to be missed. Allow a day to visit the entire site.
Buckingham Palace
What would England be without its royal family, the true symbol of the country? Buckingham Palace, where the British royals reside, is a must-see when visiting London. Countless tourists turn up daily outside the palace for a chance to catch a glimpse of a member of the Royal Family and to watch the Changing of the Guard at 11.30am (every day from April to July, and every other day the rest of the year).
Hyde Park
This is the largest park in London, covering 140 hectares. Hyde Park is one of the city's 9 Royal Parks. Take a breath of fresh air by walking or cycling along the park's paths and enjoy a romantic boat ride on the Serpentine. You'll meet swans, ducks and squirrels. And you can find a Speaker's Corner, a place where everyone is free to speak to the audience.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is a 65-metre high and 250-metre long bridge across the Thames. Its architecture is unusual in that the bridge is made up of two large towers linked by two elevated footpaths and a platform that opens to allow boats to pass. If you want a good angle to take a picture of it, stand on the banks of the Thames, both during the day and at night when it is lit up.
Camden Town
Camden Town is London's alternative and trendy district. When visiting the capital, allow at least half a day to wander the backstreets of this area. You can see street art and soak up the surrounding punk and gothic culture. This colourful underground area is also full of markets where you can find all kinds of rock-style clothes and eat cheaply from a wide variety of food trucks.
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