London seamlessly blends history and modernity, with its skyline showcasing medieval towers, Victorian grandeur, and sleek skyscrapers. Not only does this define the geography of the city, but millions of people around the world are also inspired by these landmarks. This booster-seat tour is worth more than seeing preferences on postcards, and it will reveal some incredible information about the iconic locations of London and some tales. Find out what is so different about them, why they are so unendingly appealing!
The Classics: London's Timeless Treasures
These are the landmarks that instantly come to mind when you think of London. They've stood for centuries, witnessing the city's evolution from a Roman outpost to a global metropolis.
The Tower of London
There might be no other place in British history that is as immersed in history as the Tower of London. This river Thames fortress was founded by William the Conqueror in 1066 and was subsequently used as a royal palace and prison, an armory, and also as a zoo.
Walking through its grounds will take one back in time. What one hears are the passing of its well-known prisoners, amongst them Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Guy Fawkes. In the current times, its best labels are the Crown Jewels, the eye-catching jumble of more than 23,000 gemstones adorning crowns, scepters, and orbs worn in their royal engagements. But mind to see the resident ravens of the Tower. It is a legend that the Tower and the kingdom will fall if these six birds ever manage to fly away.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic constructions in the world, as it is currently the official London residence of the British monarch. It has 775 rooms, 19 State Rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, and 78 bathrooms, which makes it more of a small town than a home.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is one of the most frequented ones among the visitors. This performance of British pageantry, with the red-coated soldiers and bearskin caps, is full every time in summer, and on certain days of the year, the rest of the year. Another beautiful place worth visiting during the summer opening is the magnificent State Rooms, which are used for official events and receptions.
The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
Houses of Parliament, officially called the Palace of Westminster, is the center of political life in the UK. The beautiful Gothic Revival edifice before you was constructed mainly following a fire in 1834 that destroyed the original palace. It hosts the two houses of the UK Parliament, the House of Lords and the House of Commons.
The Tower of the palace is the legendary clock tower, Elizabeth Tower, which is better known in connection with its great bell, Big Ben. Its iconic chimes are a familiar heard sound throughout London once more following years of massive restoration. The UK dwellers may also book a road trip and ascend to the upper deck of the 334 steps to get an intimate moment with the bell itself.
Icons of Faith and Ceremony
The religious structures found in London are not only edifices of worship; they represent the architectural marvels of the city, which have witnessed some of the most significant events in the country's history.
Westminster Abbey
Just a stone's throw from the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. All English and British coronations of kings since 1066 have been there, and 17 royal weddings, including Prince William and Catherine Middleton.
Also at the Abbey lies the last Grave of over 3,300 individuals, among them monarchs and prime ministers, scientists and poets. Tour the graves of such personages as Queen Elizabeth I, Charles Darwin, and Charles Dickens. It is a memorable place to visit in London with its gorgeous stained-glass windows and complex fan-vaulted roofs.
St. Paul's Cathedral
St. Paul's Cathedral is one of the most familiar places in London, with its impressive dome shining at the top of the skyline of this city. It was built following the destruction of the predecessor of this building in the Great Fire of London in 1666, which Sir Christopher Wren had designed.
The cathedral has hosted significant national occasions, such as the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill and the marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. Tourists can walk to the pinnacle of the dome and go to the Whispering Gallery, where a whisper on the wall is heard on the other side. At the top is the Golden Gallery, where one can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the city.
Modern Marvels Shaping the Skyline
London boasts of a rich history, but it is also a forward-thinking city. Over the past few decades, there has been the emergence of edgy new buildings that have given architecture a modern twist.
The London Eye
The London Eye was opened at the start of the new millennium, and soon it was ranked as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. It is a giant cantilevered viewing wheel situated on the South Bank of the River Thames that has a distinct view of the city.
One complete rotation in one of 32 glass capsules requires approximately 30 minutes, during which it offers spectacular 360-degree views. On a sunny day, the distance extends to about 40 kilometers (25 miles) to the right and left, and the sights of such structures as Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle can be seen on the right and left, respectively. It is an ideal opportunity to have an idea of the huge size of the city.
The Shard
The Shard is the United Kingdom's tallest structure, which has transformed the skyline of London. Architect Renzo Piano produces this skyscraper and is in the shape of a glass shard, which points at the sky with 95 stories high.
It has an observation deck known as The View from The Shard built on the 68, 69, and 72 floors of the building, which is the highest point of the city. The Shard contains offices, restaurants, a hotel, and luxurious homes, too. Going at sunset can also be seen as a very magical experience since the city lights start shining below.
Final Thoughts
The landmarks that are found in London are not merely tourist attractions but also a living history of London and its rich history and culture. From the ancient Tower of London to the present-day Shard, there is a bit of London soul contained in each location. This was your first time there or coming back home; form a checklist and visit these iconic locations. In each visit, the view and the relationship with this great city are new and more permanent.
