London is a patchwork of must-see historical attractions, from world-class museums and galleries housing some of the world’s most famous collections, to majestic royal buildings and monuments of grand imperial architecture. When visiting the UK capital, absorb yourself in British history with a tour of the city’s top historical sights.
The Tower of London, overlooking the River Thames is one of the world’s most famous buildings. London’s original royal fortress, it has had a dizzying number of uses in its 900-year history, including a royal palace, prison, execution ground, arsenal, jewel house and even a zoo! It is now a World Heritage site and houses the Crown Jewels.
Buckingham Palace, the Queen's official residence is another must-see. If you time your visit right, you could even catch the famous Changing of the Guard. Buckingham Palace is found in Westminster, where you will also discover Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster, including the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The seat of the United Kingdom government is also a world heritage listed site and a must-addition to a history buffs itinerary.
Other significant royal buildings you shouldn’t miss include the grand Hampton Court Palace, the former home of infamous King Henry VIII. The palace and it’s maze of formal gardens is a few hours well spent as is a tour of Kensington Palace, which was Princess Diana’s official home in London. Kew Palace, located in London’s lush botanical gardens is another former lodging to British royalty, notably George II’s daughters and then George III. A tour through these beautiful buildings gives you an intimate insight into the lives of the British monarchy, past and present.
Perhaps one of London’s most favoured attractions, the glorious St Paul Cathedral, dominates the capital’s skyline. This breathtaking cathedral, the seat of the Bishop of London, was built after the 1666 Great Fire of London and is the fifth church to have stood in its location since AD 604. The nation’s cathedral attracts millions of worshippers, pilgrims, sightseers and visitors every year and a visit to London would not be complete without it. Other significant churches to add to your itinerary of historical London are Southwark Cathedral, the oldest gothic building in London and All Hallows by the Tower, London’s oldest church.
London boasts some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries, many of them with free entry. If you don’t have time to visit all 240 of them, make the British Museum, the National Gallery and the Museum of Natural History your top priority.
Other must-see sights worthy of inclusion on your historical tour of London include the Banqueting House, the only surviving building of Whitehall Palace, the monarch’s principle residence between 1530 and 1698 before it was destroyed in a fire, Eton College, one of the world’s most exclusive educational establishments and the distinctive and world-famous Royal Albert Hall.
Find yourself a hotel in London, close to the city centre or in Westminster so you are well placed to discover the city’s many historical sights. Although London’s public transport system is one of the most comprehensive in the world, go on foot when you can as around every corner there is another historical gem waiting.
With a tour of London’s best historical attractions, you will immerse yourself in the city’s many stories and discover how this grand, diverse city became one of the world’s greatest capitals.
Fiona Roy writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
