London has been a major settlement for 2,000 years going back to the Romans. The heart, the City of London, still retains many of its mediaeval boundaries.
London is a leading global city where arts, commerce, education, entertainment, fashion, tourism, finance and the media all contribute to its prominence. In 2012 it will become the first city to host the Summer Olympics three times.
London contains four World Heritage Sites: the Tower of London; Kew Gardens; the Palace of Westminster and the historic settlement of Greenwich. Other famous landmarks include Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, the Gherkin, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and Trafalgar Square. Home to numerous museums, galleries, libraries and theatres there will never be a shortage of things to see and do.
Its extensive underground network, the oldest underground railway network in the world and the most extensive after the Shanghai Metro, will ensure that these places are easy to get to and if you don’t fancy the tube you can go by bus, taxi or, if you’re feeling energetic why not go by Boris Bike? Launched in July 2010, Boris bikes are London’s cycle hire scheme.
The West End is London’s main entertainment and shopping district, attracting millions of tourists every year. the East end is the area closest to the original Port of London, known for its high immigrant population as well as for being one of the poorest areas in London. Parts of it are presently being redeveloped for the 2012 Olympics.
London has over 3,000 green spaces and parks making it one of the greenest cities in the world: Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Regent’s Park, Green Park and St. James’s Park are all a short walk from the West End while the more expansive parklands of Hampstead Heath and Richmond Park are easy to get to by tube or bus.
With a population of nearly 8 million and covering an area of more than 620 square miles, London dominates the national horizon despite Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish devolution: this is where the country’s news and money are made and why the capital has a unique aura of excitement and success.
Check out some of the things you can do in London below…
Fera at Claridge’s
Restaurant Chef Simon Rogan’s upscale eatery at Claridge’s offers elaborate tasting menus in an art deco space.
Website: feraatclaridges.co.uk
Maddox Gallery
Mayfair’s Contemporary Gallery
Contemporary art gallery in Mayfair, London exhibiting an eclectic mix of paintings, sculpture and prints by blue chip, established and emerging artists.
Hackney Empire
This hundred year old theatre has a strong presence on the London circuit and is Britain’s leading black theatre. It presents a diverse mixture of comedy, drama, dance and opera throughout the year.
Portobello Road
West London’s liveliest street starts off selling quality antiques, and continues through to bric-a-brac indoor galleries, plus food stalls, crafts, clothes and music.
John Lewis
Famous for being “never knowingly undersold” this reliable institution can’t be beaten for basics from buttons in their haberdashery department to well-made clothes, furniture and household goods. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly too.
National Maritime Museum
Comprising three sites: the Maritime Galleries, the Royal Observatory and the Queen’s House, the National Maritime Museum illustrates the importance of the sea, ships, time and the stars and their relationship with people.
Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill offers spectacular views of the city skyline from its 66 meter (216 foot) summit.
Serpentine Gallery
Located in Kensington Gardens, this gallery shows dynamic work by new and established modern artists as well as hosting interesting Sunday afternoon lectures and a performance-art festival in the summer.
Lords Cricket Ground
Lord’s, also known as Lord’s Cricket Ground, is a cricket venue in St John’s Wood, London. Named after its founder, Thomas Lord, it is owned by Marylebone Cricket Club and is the home of Middlesex County.
Capacity: 30,000
Chelsea Football Club
Chelsea Football Club is a professional football club based in Fulham, London, UK that competes in the English Premier League, of which they are reigning champions. Founded in 1905, the club’s home ground since then has been Stamford Bridge.
Capacity: 41,663
COYA Mayfair
Peruvian restaurant Upmarket venue with 3 open kitchens, serving Peruvian sharing plates, char-grill dishes and ceviche. 118 Piccadilly 020 7042 7118
Amused Moose
A great place to see the hottest acts on the comedy circuit and also the best of breaking talent.
Big Ben
Of all the attractions in London, Big Ben epitomizes the culture of the capital.
You’ll find Big Ben in Westminster, right in the heart London. The attraction is amongst countless other sightseeing attractions, including Buckingham Palace, 10 Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye, all located within walking distance of one another.
Drama
Nightclub Exclusive members’-only dance club and cocktail bar popular with celebrities. London Hilton on Park Lane, 35 Hertford St Great cocktails · Groups · Wine Closed today.
Website: http://dramaparklane.com/