Established in 1066 by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London's status as a tourist favourite had started as early as the 1590s and continues to grow in strength.
Tower Hill
Exhibitions dealing with its history inundate the Tower of London. As one of London’s most significant landmarks, the Tower and its exhibitions is a great opportunity for families to introduce older children to the history of one of Europe’s oldest cities. The Crown Jewels of the British Royal Family are also displayed here, showcasing the splendour of British history.
As one of the most famous clocks in the world, Big Ben is an iconic part of London’s skyline and is featured on many souvenirs and postcards.
London SW1A 0AA
Standing at only 97.5 meters tall, the Big Ben can be difficult to see amongst taller buildings that have since been built. Still, there are wonderful viewpoints and photo opportunities on Westminster Bridge, one of our recommendation. It is awesome among the greatest areas for a quick walking tour, with its proximity to Westminister Abbey and the London Eye.
Originally built in the late 19th century for the functional purpose of facilitating cross-Thames travel, the Tower Bridge had since grown to become one of London's symbolic structures.
Tower Bridge Road
Though not an attraction that everyone enters as one can get great views from the Thames riverbank, the Tower Bridge remains an amazing draw. When you enter the bridge, not only can you get spectacular views of London and see the passing traffic through a high-level glass floor walkways, you can also explore its various exhibitions and even see the original Victorian Engine Room.
Westminster Abbey is both a place of celebration and a place of worship. The church has been the location for many Royal Weddings including its most recent one in 2011 of Prince William and Kate Middleton, which was broadcasted globally.
20 Dean's Yard
The British Royal family has been all the rage in recent years with Kate’s Cindarella-esque wedding to Prince William; where better to experience the Royal popularity than Westminster Abbey! As the historical setting for royal events including the solemn as well, Westminster Abbey also hosted Princess Diana’s Funeral. Combined with its cultural significance, Westminster Abbey is a must-see attraction for all fans of the Royals and tourists interested in British culture.
The world's tallest observation wheel, the Coca-cola London Eye stands at 135 meters tall, providing you with a one of a kind view of London’s ever-growing skyline from its perch right next to the River Thames.
Riverside Building
The London Eye is aptly named, as from the attraction, you can see almost all the popular attractions, including Big Ben, the Shard, and more! Since its completion in 2000, it has become one of London’s award-winning attractions, winning for tourism, architectural quality, and engineering.
Located in Central London, the must-see St. Paul Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and a true landmark of the city.
St Paul's Churchyard
Join the legions of famous individuals in history who have visited the Cathedral, including American civil rights activist Dr Martin Luther King who gave a sermon here on his trip to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. Architecture and acoustic fans would also be amazed by the Whispering Gallery 257 steps off the ground floor, where a whisper against the walls is audible on the opposite side!
Located on the Southbank, the Globe Theatre is a replica of the original 1576 theatre of Shakespearean fame, where some of his plays are currently performed.
21 New Globe Walk
Proposed by American actor/director Sam Wanamaker, the Globe Theatre was built as a theatre dedicated to all things Shakespearean. Not only is it a worthy site to visit to learn about the life of the great playwright, but you can also see shows, including William Shakespeare’s renowned Romeo and Juliet.
As one of the newest additions to London’s skyline, the Shard is a minimalistic glass building that stands at 310 metres tall and is currently the tallest building in the UK and the fourth tallest in Europe.
32 London Bridge Street
The Shard contains everything a tourist needs, from the Shangri-la Hotel to the Aqua Shard afternoon tea, from retail arcade to various bars and restaurants. You can even check out the open-air Skydeck on the 72nd floor, giving you a panoramic view of London for up to 65 kilometres. The only reason it is not higher on our top 10? It can be quite pricey.
The current residence of Queen Elizabeth II, Buckingham Palace is a historic and intricately designed building dating back to the reign of James I of the 16th Century.
Buckingham Place
Though some of the Royal Family still reside within Buckingham Palace, their concentration on the north side means other areas are open to the public. Attractions you can check out here include the famous Palace’s gardens and various exhibitions. Listen to the whispers of the walls as you walk down the halls where history was written.
As a popular location for events, celebrations and filming, Trafalgar Square has served as the backdrop for many of London's greatest memories.
Trafalgar Square
Located directly in front of the National Gallery, Trafalgar Square offers you a perfect spot to relax as you soak in the sight before you: the Nelson Column and four stone lions which commemorate Lord Nelson’s victory in 1805 during the battle of Trafalgar. Though tourists abound and of great cultural value, it is perhaps the site’s popularity among pigeons that makes Trafalgar Square #10 in our list.
