London

Ah, London. It's not all jellied eels and pearly kings and queens, you know. This wonderful capital city is a cultural cauldron, and the home of exciting art, theatre, music and opera. It's also great for sightseeing. Take time to explore the well-known attractions such as the Tower of London, which is the home of the crown jewels, and has a bloody history that will thrill the children. It's said to be haunted by a host of ghosts, including a screaming lady and a giant bear... so watch your step!

While you're on the tourist trail, make sure you see Trafalgar Square, with its iconic Nelson's Column and the fountains where revellers come to frolic on New Year's Eve. The National Gallery overlooks the Square, and the National Portrait Gallery is just around the corner, so pop in for a dose of culture while you're there (or just head straight to the rooftop restaurant at the top of the NPG). Leicester Square – where the celebs rock up for film premieres – is just around the corner, if you fancy star-spotting.

Other highlights of London include the South Bank–fabulous for cafe culture, people-watching and boat trips. And don't miss the Tate Modern, a free contemporary art museum, housed in a former power station. The Millennium Bridge, just outside the Tate, has been dubbed the 'wobbly bridge' due to early engineering problems. Use it to cross over the river and see the spendours of St Paul's Cathedral.

It's also fun to see changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace. A short hop away is the magnificent Westminster Abbey and you're now in the political heart of the capital. Opposite is Houses of Parliament, where the Prime Minister and the MPs hang out. You can also set your watch to Big Ben, the clock that has become one of the country's most famous landmarks.

It's traditional to stop for afternoon tea, so when in London... well, we recommend heading for the patisseries in Soho. Wander through nearby Chinatown, where you can pick up herbal remedies, or settle down to a bowl of noodles. If you prefer curries, head East, and stop off for a sensational chicken tikka on Brick Lane (Aldgate East or Liverpool Street tube). We'd also recommend exploring the stalls and shops at trendy Spitalfields Market.

Now, if you're ready to leave London behind, shall we start our voyage towards Stonehenge?

Useful Links

Transport For London (Opens in new window) The Transport for London website provides real-time journey planning, live service updates, and fare management for the city's entire transport network. It offers essential resources for visitors, including downloadable maps, accessibility information, and guidance on using Oyster or contactless payments for the Tube, buses, and rail.

London City Hall (Opens in new window) Serves as the administrative portal for the Greater London Authority, providing visitors with information on the work of the Mayor and the London Assembly. It offers resources for attending public debates and meetings, booking educational tours, and accessing "London’s Kitchen" café or event spaces at the Royal Docks building. Additionally, the site features a city-wide events calendar, cost-of-living support, and updates on major London-wide policies regarding housing, transport, and the environment.

Private London Tours (Opens in new window) Loving the capital so much you can’t bear to leave? Treat yourself to a private London tour from our hand-picked selection of expert operators and guides. From immersive walking tours to luxury chauffeur-driven experiences, you’ll find the perfect way to explore on this informative site.

Next Stop: Kempton Park Racecourse A premier London-area racecourse in Sunbury-on-Thames, famous for its floodlit all-weather track and the prestigious King George VI Chase held every Boxing Day.