London travel guide
The London Travel Guide from The Great Hotels Organisation is free for all London travellers.
London is the biggest city in Europe and positively crammed with diverse delights, from the iconic, Big Ben, to the exotic, restaurants and street markets. Tourists in London are never short of things to do with something for everyone including world famous exhibitions, galleries, museums, theatre, city parks and great shopping.
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London Travel Highlights- London Landmarks
- Each year, visitors flock to London armed with a list of must-see attractions that will no doubt include: Big Ben, Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, British Museum, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. However London has much more to offer the average tourist, with a notorious art and fashion scene, you are always going to be a stone's throw away from a fantastic event...
- London Culture
- London is the cultural capital which boasts a sizzling art and music scene. Visit the Royal Opera House, Somerset House and Royal Academy for an exclusive taste of London. Well known for its art scene and home to many famous artists such as Banksy, Damien Hirst, Tracy Emin and the Chapman Brothers, London is one of the best places to view the latest art - visit Tate Modern, Tate Britain, the National Portrait Gallery and Photographer’s Gallery to experience the diversity in which the city has to offer.
On a fine day, while away the hours, wandering through some of the city’s finest parks – Hyde Park, St James’ Park and Greenwich Park offer expansive green spaces where one can escape the city for a few hours – bliss.
- Where to shop
- The city of London is positively abundant with dazzling department stores, quaint antique markets and designer boutiques. If you’re visiting London in the hope to spend some well earned money then you’ve come to the right city.
Wander down King’s Road in Chelsea, home to some of the most exquisite shops and restaurants in London or Bond Street, with its wide range of designer boutiques (including Chanel, Gucci, Hermes and Jimmy Choo), exclusive jewellery shops (including Tiffany & Co, De Beers, Georg Jenson and Cartier), and antique centres.
Without a doubt, the most famous department store in London has to be Harrods – a Landmark in its own right. This grand structure houses a vast array of luxury goods, including designer clothing, furniture, gourmet food, electrical products and homeware. Even if you don’t plan to purchase anything from this store, go and have a look at the decadent interior - just don’t expect it to be subtle!
Other department stores worth a visit include Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, which both provide an impressive range of designer treats. Finally, London is renowned for its sharp tailoring, so if you’d like a top-quality three-piece suit, visit one of the shops on Savile Row, which is famous for its bespoke designs.
- Where to eat and drink
- The city boasts an impressive array of gourmet restaurants, which serve cuisine from around the globe. Whether it’s fine Italian cuisine, delectable French, zesty Thai, inventive Japanese or modern European – London has it all.
Possibly one of the most well-known restaurants in London, the Oxo Tower is located on the Southbank and provides diners will breathtaking views and gourmet cuisine. The cocktails aren’t bad either.
To sample Gordon Ramsay’s delectable menu, book a table at Claridge’s. Not only does this decadent restaurant offer sumptuous cuisine, the décor and chic ambiance will also impress. Please make sure that you book your table well in advance as the restaurant is extremely popular.
Visit The Ritz for a truly opulent afternoon tea - said to be one of the most sought after places to dine, The Ritz Restaurant is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Sample the breakfast, lunch or dinner menu – or for an authentic English experience, try the afternoon tea with fruit jam, scones, and an array of sandwiches, pastries and teas.
Located in the heart of Soho, this restaurant has an exclusive and intimate feel. Located in a 1740’s townhouse, this secret gourmet gem – run by award-winning chef Richard Corrigan provides guests with exquisite cuisine and a sophisticated environment.
- Annual Events
- January
New Year’s Day Parade - one of the best street parades in Europe, wrap up warm and bring along the whole family for a day of fun!
February
Chinese New Year - a wonderful, colourful parade which will engage all of the senses
April
London Marathon - come along to see the fabulous costumes and cheer on the brave runners
May
Chelsea Flower Show - one of London's most popular annual events, let your eyes and nose guide you...
June
Wimbledon - the most famous tennis tournament in the world - not to be missed!
August
Notting Hill Carnival - with colourful costumes, body-shaking music, tasty food and a great atmosphere, this carnival is something everyone should experience at least once in their lives
September
Proms in the Park - a series of outdoor classical music concerts in the heart of London
October
BFI London Film Festival - showcasing the best films from around the world, this event is for anyone and everyone who has a passion for great films
November
Lord Mayors Show - a huge firework extravaganza with floats and an exciting atmosphere
December
Trafalgar Square Christmas tree lighting - get into the festive spirit at one of London's most famous landmarks
- Iconic London
- London is one of the most iconic cities in the world due to its well-known landmarks and unique features. Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Tower Bridge, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are extremely popular visitor attractions in London and also the most photographed. Other iconic images of London include red telephone boxes, black cabs and the bright lights of Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus!
Useful links for London
London Tourist Travel Guide- Hotels for London Travellers
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