Other London Attractions
If you really want to enjoy and experience London, you should not miss the following attractions that will make your visit to the UK capital complete.
The London Eye. This giant Ferris wheel that is situated on the bank of the River Thames is the tallest Ferry wheel in Europe and third tallest in the world. It was erected in 1999 and was the tallest Ferry wheel when opened. The London Eye is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London because it offers a spectacular panoramic view of the central London.
Kew Gardens. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew simply known as the Kew Gardens is one of four UNESCO World Heritage sites in London and an absolute must-see if being interested in botanical gardens. It has the largest collection of living plants in the world and includes more than 30,000 different plant species on 121 hectares. It is located in Kew in South West London and is open every day except 24 and 25 December.
30 St Mary Axe. The most famous skyscraper in London, colloquially referred to as the Gherkin is impossible to overlook because it is visible as far as 30 kilometres away. The 180 metres tall skyscraper is marked by unique design which was created by Norman Foster and Arup engineers, and became one of the most recognizable symbols of London soon after its completion in 2003. On the topmost level (40th floor) is a bar with 360 degree panoramic view for the tenants. The 30 St Mary Axe stands on the site of the former Baltic Exchange in the heart of London financial district.
Trafalgar Square. The square in the central London in front of the National Gallery is one of the top tourist sites in the British capital. It features a number of statues and fountains, while the centre of the square is dominated by the Nelson’s Column which was erected in honour of Admiral Nelson who died in the Battle of Trafalgar (1805) in which the British Royal Navy decisively defeated the French and Spanish navy.
Piccadilly Circus. A square that connects the Regent Street and main shopping street Piccadilly is surrounded by a number of tourist attractions which made it a popular meeting place and an attraction on its own.
London Underground. The oldest underground railway in the world is a great way to get around London and an experience for itself. It began operating in 1863.
Ride with the red double-decker bus. A visit to London would be incomplete without a ride with the red double-decker bus. The iconic AEC Routemaster that became one of the main London’s symbols retired in 2005 but it still operates on two heritage routes enabling you to ride with this legendary vehicle.
Blue plaques. Blue circular plaques that are found on the facades of buildings all over London commemorate important historical figures who lived in a particular building or were otherwise connected to it. Only the actual buildings can have the blue plaques, not the sites of the original buildings.