London is an exciting city brimming with historic royal palaces, political landmarks, centuries-old churches, Jewish heritage sites, and world-class museums. My wife Fern and I recently spent a week exploring this diverse metropolis, and I’d love to share our experiences and tips to help you plan your visit.
London is home to over 8 million residents and is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. We flew from Baltimore-Washington Airport to Gatwick Airport on Wow Airlines and were pleased to find that September offered great weather. During our stay, we delved into royal London, historic churches, numerous museums, parts of the UK government, several landmarks, and Jewish London’s rich history.
Our royal-themed adventures were especially memorable. Watching the Changing of the Guard was a highlight. This colorful 45-minute ceremony happens four mornings a week around 10:45 AM. We got a prime viewing spot on the Victoria Memorial, where we could see both the approach and the changing of the guards, complete with lively music and precision marching.
We toured Buckingham Palace, a grand palace with 775 rooms, open for self-guided tours during the summer. Highlights included the coronation throne from 1953, the marble staircase, and the ornate state dining room. To visit, you can book online for £24, which includes an audio guide.
Next, we explored Kensington Palace. This less formal palace allowed us to sit on window sills or furniture and take photos. We learned about the domestic side of royal life, explored the “Victoria Revealed” exhibit focused on Queen Victoria, and enjoyed the “Diana, Her Fashion Story” exhibit. Admission costs £19.50.
St. Paul’s Cathedral was another highlight. We took a tour with a church volunteer and an audio guide. We admired the beautiful Baroque design, the American memorial chapel, the impressive crypt, and climbed 259 steps to the Whispering Gallery for stunning interior views. Tickets are £16 and can be booked online.
Westminster Abbey, built in the 13th century, has held royal coronations since 1066. It houses the graves of many kings and queens, including Elizabeth I and Henry VII. An audio tour included with the £20 admission fee guided us through the abbey’s history.
The National Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, hosting over 2,300 paintings. Our favorite rooms featured Monet and Van Gogh masterpieces. Admission is free, though we paid for an audio tour.
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is an excellent stop for those interested in decorative arts and design. Open since 1857, its permanent collection spans 5,000 years. We enjoyed a guided tour and a visit to the museum’s café. Admission is free.
The British Museum houses 8 million artefacts, focusing on human history, art, and culture. Highlights included the Rosetta Stone and the Lewis chessmen. Admission to the permanent collection is free.
Tate Modern, created from a disused power station, focuses on international modern and contemporary art. The museum is free, and the views from its tenth floor are spectacular.
The Houses of Parliament tour was our favorite. Guided by a member of the Parliament, we explored Westminster Hall, the Commons and Lords chambers, and learned about the UK’s legislative process. Tickets cost £25.50.
Other spots we visited included the Tower of London, famous for its history and crown jewels (£22.70), Tower Bridge with its panoramic views (£8.70), Abbey Road for Beatles fans, Harrods for luxury shopping, and a West End show. We loved the “Phantom of the Opera” at Her Majesty’s Theatre.
We also ventured into Jewish London, visiting the Bevis Marks synagogue and the Westminster Synagogue, which houses rescued Holocaust Torah scrolls.
Getting around London was easy with the Underground and an Oyster card for discounted travel. We also used the London Pass for free entry to many attractions.
Our hotel, the Hilton London Metropole, offered excellent amenities and easy access to the Underground. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, consider exploring related locations with a dedicated guide.
London is a city that offers something for everyone, from rich history to vibrant modern culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to discover.
suansuan