London has so many tourist attractions that it is difficult to select five that will define the city.
These may not be the top 5 London tourist attractions in terms of visitor numbers but they are nevertheless, very popular and among the most visited. They might be considered ‘Must See Sights in London’.
The Tower of London may be best known as the place where people were tortured to death, but this period in its history is just a small part of what it has to offer to the curious visitor. Here, one can learn about the history of a royal palace, military building and sovereign stronghold. Courtesy of the Royal Beasts exhibition, one can learn about the untamed and incredible animals who have lived in the Tower over the years. You can also take a look at the precious Crown Jewels, sign up to a ‘Beefeater’ tour and hear their gruesome tales, see for yourself where famous people have been beheaded, and hear the legend of the Tower’s ravens, to name just a few of the many activities visitors can partake in.
The EDF Energy London Eye currently provides the best panoramic views of London City. However, now you can marvel at aerial footage of London shot in 3D, making the admission fee better value for money than ever before. You can also view the globally famous London New Year’s Eve fireworks display. There are more 4D sensory effects here than anywhere else in the British Isles, so the visitor can actually experience the event, as well as seeing and hearing it. This truly is a magical way to experience London like you’ve never felt before.
Hyde Park really is amongst the world’s most beautiful city parks, spanning 350 acres which encompasses trees, an expansive lake, a meadow and ornamental flower gardens. Here, it is very easy to simply forget one is in the city centre. A range of activities, such as swimming, boating, cycling and skating, are also available. The two licensed lakeside restaurants are very conveniently located for catching some refreshment, after several enjoyable hours rambling around the park. The Serpentine Bridge, Diana Memorial Fountain, the Joy of Life Fountain and the Archiles statue are just some of the very well known monuments that call the park home. Open air events are held in all seasons. On Sundays, Speaker’s Corner is where the city’s most vocal orators speak to the crowds.
Dating back to the mid 18th century, the British Museum boasts a catalogue of artefacts, like the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies, to name just a few. Together, these treasures cover more than 2,000,000 years of humanity’s existence on earth. Seeing all of these prized possessions on show, all in one place and centred on the awe inspiring Great Court, truly is a joy to behold. Upwards of 5,800,000 visit the museum annually.
The Fan Museum is located in a period building that dates from the early 18th century. It has the distinction of being home to the best collection of fans in the world. Some of the loveliest specimens date from the 1700s and 1800s. The displays are switched around every 4 months, meaning there is always something new to admire. The attractive building, along with the manicured Japanese garden and impressive orangery (together with a beautiful mural and souvenir shop), ensure that visitors will return time and time again.
