Article by Roo Sadegi
People visit London for many reasons. The capitol city of both England and the United Kingdom, this region has been a metropolitan area for over two thousand years. During the Roman era, the name of the city was Londinium. Currently, no matter why they are staying in the city, visitors should take time to appreciate the history and fine attractions that should not be overlooked such as Big Ben, Leicester Square, London Eye and Westminster Abbey.
Big Ben
The most famous landmark for London, the clock, tower and bell chimes are part of the Palace of Westminster, on the north side of the building. Big Ben is the largest clock in the world that has four clock faces. In May of 2009, the city celebrated the clock’s 150th anniversary. While tour inside the tower are no longer permitted, the public park next to Victoria Tower on the south-western corner of the palace, the Victoria Tower Gardens, is a lovely place to walk and view the exterior of the palace, and both towers.
Leicester Square
An area for pedestrians, the square is the area inside these streets: Charing Cross Road on the east, Orange Street on the south, Whitcomb Street on the west and Lisle Street on the north. In the heart of the square is a park called Leicester Square Gardens. A walk through the park is a walk through history with magnificent statues of famous people. William Shakespeare’s statue includes a fountain.
Today, a famous feature of Leicester Square is Theatreland, the major location for British film premieres. The square has floor plaques with star names and handprints like what is found on the famous walk in Hollywood.
London Eye
Also called the Millennium Wheel, this Ferris wheel is the tallest in Europe, situated on the south side of the River Thames and on the western part of the beautiful Jubilee Gardens. A wonderful way to view the city, the ride takes approximately thirty minutes.
Westminster Abbey
In Westminster, London, this Collegiate Church of St Peter is the official place for royal coronation and is a traditional burial place for royalty. The gothic architecture, museum and history make it a primary place to visit when in London. It is open for tours every day except Sunday. All people entering on Sunday come in for worship.
Seeing these and other sites in London is rewarding. When people come to the region, they find the city is a thriving cosmopolitan area that is important historically, culturally, and politically for the UK and the world. Trip planners should do research on the area and find cheap hotels in London because good deals on attractions and nearby accommodations are available.
About the Author
Roo Sadegi is an online travel writer who spends much of his time travelling around Europe’s travel hotspots.
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