I recently visited London, my third time in this gorgeous English city. London is definitely one of the top tourism attractions and one of the most significant cities in the world. I particularly love this city. It is vibrant and has its good share of history,culture and entertainment. I cant get enough of this wonderful city and here is an insight of my time in London.
We took London by night on the London eye, situated on the banks of the Thames. I personally do not recommend this one unless you love 'bird's eye view' of cities because there are better and beautiful views from elsewhere in London from where you can enjoy it for free. So I suggest you can use your time and money better by doing other things around the area.
Just beyond these recognizable buildings is one of London's most important places, The Buckingham Palace. A visit to London will not be complete without a stop at this mansion, home of the British Royal Family. The Palace adorns the western end of St.James Park. The Palace is not open to the public except in the months of July,August and September. But you could still get a great view from the outside, take some good pictures and imagine all the historical British events that occurred there and all the window appearances by the Royal family. Its best if you time your visit to coincide with the changing of the guards ceremony. It is a lengthy process and gets quiet boring as you don't really understand what they do, but still go for it as you get to see the royal guards perfectly marching and the royal band playing and of course the royal horses.
On the next day our first stop was at the Tower of London. The weather was windy and terrible and sadly we had already booked ourselves on a walking tour. Bracing myself, I decided to make the best of it and enjoy my last day in London. The Tower of London is a historical Castle on the banks of the River Thames overlooking the Tower bridge. Inside this castle sits the Royal Crown Jewels. I took a look at the stolen Kohinoor diamond from India and was in awe at its brilliance. The rest of the tour made me grimace as it went on about the rather brutal happenings that has said to have occurred inside the tower. Go for the guided tour if your interested in stories about war and blood or just take a peek at the Crown Jewels and be out.
As we came out from the the Tower of London, we saw the Tower Bridge standing majestically. The bridge has become London's most beloved symbols and if your a bollywood fan, you would have watched many a song and dance on it. This place can get you some terrific postcard pictures.
My dad had come on a business trip to the UK and I was so glad for the excuse to sight see London. So there started my weekend in London.
We then took a walk along the River Thames. It was quiet cold considering it was Spring(but you can never predict the London weather). We contemplated taking the Thames river cruise but finally decided not to. I heard the candlelit dinner cruises are pretty good and is the perfect way to end a long day of exploring the city.
Thankfully the next day was brighter and warmer . Going around London in the rain can be very painful if you are a tourist. After a good breakfast we took a cab to the city of Westminster. The Big Ben stood tall across from the Westminster Abbey. Big Ben is a national treasure and is featured in countless pieces of literature and artwork. It is quiet picturesque with its clock tower and well sculptured walls. You could also go to the top of the tower if you wanted to.
In my last visit to London I could not go inside the Westminster Abbey since I was on a tour from University. This time though I really wanted to get in and get a peek at the altar where William married Kate(so much love).The architecture is marvellous and I suggest you take a guided tour if you are interested in its deep history.
Our next stop was at St. Paul's cathedral. Another must see in London. The tours are a bit pricey but definitely worth it if you want to understand the history behind its architecture and painted ceilings.
It was very different from the other Cathedrals that I have been to in the UK. A climb to the top of the tower can get you dizzy and tired but its a must as the view is incredible.
On the next day our first stop was at the Tower of London. The weather was windy and terrible and sadly we had already booked ourselves on a walking tour. Bracing myself, I decided to make the best of it and enjoy my last day in London. The Tower of London is a historical Castle on the banks of the River Thames overlooking the Tower bridge. Inside this castle sits the Royal Crown Jewels. I took a look at the stolen Kohinoor diamond from India and was in awe at its brilliance. The rest of the tour made me grimace as it went on about the rather brutal happenings that has said to have occurred inside the tower. Go for the guided tour if your interested in stories about war and blood or just take a peek at the Crown Jewels and be out.
As we came out from the the Tower of London, we saw the Tower Bridge standing majestically. The bridge has become London's most beloved symbols and if your a bollywood fan, you would have watched many a song and dance on it. This place can get you some terrific postcard pictures.
We then headed to Oxford Street by the London Tube. I must say the Tube is the best way to get around London as the cabs are way too heavy on your wallet. Oxford Street has a host of shopping options. Be warned of the crowd of people that flock these shops at every hour of the day. Walk further down and you get to Piccadilly Circus. A quick snap or two at the Trafalgar square is a must.
I also recommend visiting the great Harrods store. To be honest I have never seen a store like this in my life. Its massive and has something for everyone.
London is beautiful, bustling with its Royalty and elegance. Definitely my most favorite city after Chennai.(nothing can beat home)
