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Experience the Magic of London, United Kingdom: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

About London, United Kingdom

London is a vibrant city, rich in history and culture, offering visitors an array of experiences. From world-class museums and galleries to iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower Bridge, London has something for everyone. Explore diverse neighborhoods, enjoy delicious cuisine, and uncover the secrets of this fascinating city.

London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is one of the most iconic travel destinations in the world. This bustling metropolis offers a wide range of attractions, from historic landmarks to world-class museums, and is a favorite destination for travelers from all over the globe.

One of the most famous attractions in London is the Tower of London. This historic fortress has been home to kings and queens for centuries, and is now open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the tower's many rooms and learn about its history, including its use as a royal palace, a prison, and a place of execution.

Another must-visit attraction in London is the British Museum. This world-renowned museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and artworks, including the famous Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. Visitors can spend hours exploring the museum's many galleries, which cover everything from ancient Egypt to modern art.

For those interested in the arts, London is home to some of the world's best theaters and galleries. The West End is famous for its many theaters, which host a wide range of shows, from classic plays to modern musicals. The city is also home to many world-class galleries, including the Tate Modern and the National Gallery.

Of course, no visit to London would be complete without a trip to Buckingham Palace. This iconic palace has been the home of the British royal family since the 18th century, and is open to the public during the summer months. Visitors can explore the palace's many opulent rooms, and even watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside.

For those looking for a taste of local culture, London is home to many vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. From the trendy streets of Shoreditch to the historic charm of Notting Hill, there is something for everyone in this diverse and exciting city.

Overall, London is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, and culture. With its many world-renowned attractions and vibrant local culture, this iconic city has something to offer travelers of all ages and interests.

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Popular Stays in London, United Kingdom

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in London, United Kingdom

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Holiday Inn London Heathrow M4, Jct.4

A welcoming Heathrow Airport hotel with meeting rooms and 2 restaurants. Holiday Inn® London - Heathrow M4, Jct. 4 - A spectacular newly refurbished lobby and public areas provide you with a welcoming space to eat, drink, work, relax or socialiseOur shuttle service can whisk you quickly to your flight, and Park, Stay & Go packages let you leave the car safe while you travel. Central London is only 15 miles away, easily accessed via the nearby M4 motorway, or in 25 minutes on the Heathrow Express train, so we’re perfectly placed for day trips to the capital's renowned museums, shops and galleries. The Queen’s home at Windsor Castle and family-friendly LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort are both within easy reach. The M25 motorway is close by, so it’s an easy drive to race meetings at Royal Ascot as well. Our 15 smartly furnished meeting rooms are ideal for conferences, gala dinners or weddings for up to 200 guests. At this hotel you can enjoy free WiFi, a Fitness Centre, Free shuttle to Stockley Business Park (weekdays) and Kids stay and eat freeWith plenty of space for families, our comfortable guest rooms all have quality bedding and a choice of pillows for a good night's sleep ahead of your flight. Settle in for some Sky Sports action at T6 Restaurant & Bar.
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Jumeirah Lowndes London

Close to the High Streets of Knightsbridge-Chelsea-Hyde ParkSituated in Londons leafy Londons Belgravia village the Jumeirah Lowndes London is nestled amongst exclusive shops and cobbled streets. Just moments from Harrods and Harvey Nichols and the embassies of Belgrave Square the hotel is within easy access of Londons airports the city and its best shopping and attractions. Each room and suite is beautifully finished in contemporary style offering the perfect place to relax and unwind. Amenities include Nespresso coffee machines- complimentary internet access- Temple spa products. Some rooms overlook leafy Lowndes Square. Lowndes Restaurant and Bar offers a relaxed vibrant venue and is open daily for breakfast and for all day dining. Guests enjoy complimentary access to The Peak Health Club and Spa located across the road at our sister hotel Jumeirah Carlton Tower. Situated on the 9th floor The Peak boasts stunning views over central London state of the art gym equipment golf simulator aerobics studio sauna award winning spa treatments including massage and facials and 20m indoor heated pool. **No access to the Peak Club Health and Spa between 1 Sep 2019 and summer 2020 due to the renovation of Jumeirah Carlton Tower**
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Business hotelsHotels with charm

Holiday Inn Oxford Circus

Holiday Inn London - Oxford Circus, an IHG Hotel is centrally located in London, a 4-minute walk from Selfridges and 8 minutes by foot from Oxford Circus. This hotel is 0. 9 mi (1. 4 km) from Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and 1 mi (1. 7 km) from Hyde Park. Enjoy recreational amenities such as a fitness center and bicycles to rent. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a vending machine. Make yourself at home in one of the 164 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and minibars. Satellite programming and video-game consoles are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Bathrooms have bathtubs and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks. Enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or stay in and take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). Wrap up your day with a drink at the bar/lounge. Buffet breakfasts are available daily for a fee. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Planning an event in London? This hotel has 2921 square feet (271 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Bond Street - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Selfridges - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Oxford Street - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Regent Street - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- Baker Street - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- Oxford Circus - 0. 7 km / 0.
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Business hotelsHotels with spa

The Chelsea Harbour Hotel And Spa

Hotel is situated next to Saatchi Gallery (Contemporary artworks from Charles Saatchi's private collection), 10 min walkign distance from King road shops. Imperial wharf station is it just 2 minutes away and has direct trains to Kensington Olimpia which will take 5 minutes. The Chelsea Harbour Hotel is an ideal combination of urban retreat and harbourside-haven that's easily accessible to the city center. As one of the few hotels with a river view in London, our hotel overlooks the stunning Chelsea Harbour. Neatly tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, guests can experience and oasis of calm in the capital's only 5-star, all-suite hotel.
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Business hotelsSustainable HotelHotels with spa

The Waldorf Hilton, London

The Waldorf Hilton, London is centrally located in London, a 4-minute walk from Covent Garden Market and 12 minutes by foot from Trafalgar Square. This luxury hotel is 0. 8 mi (1. 3 km) from The British Museum and 0. 9 mi (1. 5 km) from London Eye. Enjoy recreation amenities such as a health club or take in the view from a terrace. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a ballroom. Stay in one of 298 guestrooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Cable programming provides entertainment, and wired and wireless internet access is available for a surcharge. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as laptop-compatible safes and desks. Enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or stay in and take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). Wrap up your day with a drink at the bar/lounge. English breakfasts are served on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and on weekends from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in London? This hotel has 9688 square feet (900 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and 7 meeting rooms. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. The Strand - 0. 2 km / 0. 1 mi- King's College London - 0. 3 km / 0. 2 mi- Covent Garden Market - 0.
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Business hotelsHotels with charmHistorical

Radisson Blu Edwardian Hampshire Hotel London

The Radisson Blu Edwardian Hampshire Hotel, part of Edwardian Hotels London, is located in the heart of the city's iconic film and theatreland. The building itself is a striking combination of classic red-brick architecture and a sleek, contemporary interior. Especially eye-catching are the incredible views guests can see from their rooms, taking in the London Eye, Nelson's Column and a close-up view of Leicester Square Gardens which is fabulous during movie premiere nights. A 24 hour fitness room and 6 private meeting spaces hosting between 2 and 120 people complete the hotel's outstanding facilities. The 127 bedrooms include doubles, family rooms and suites, featuring luxurious 350 thread count Egyptian cotton bedding, down pillows, REN toiletries, Italian marble bathrooms, elegant decor and cutting-edge technology, with Samsung TVs offering up to 300 channels in multiple languages and free high-speed WiFi up to 150mbps on an unlimited number of devices. For a real treat, book into one of the hotel's stunning square-facing rooms or suites to make it feel as if you are floating above the bustling Leicester Square. Leicester Square Kitchen is a place to enjoy superb food in effortlessly cool surroundings. Contemporary furnishings coupled with a relaxed atmosphere provide the backdrop to a fabulous fusion of Peruvian-Mexican sharing plates, with all food being prepared onsite. Meanwhile, (the) At The Hampshire Lounge Bar and al fresco terrace offers afternoon tea and light snacks. Always on trend, the Lounge Bar also regularly collaborates with some of the world's finest food and drink brands. Famous sights and attractions, such as Soho, Piccadilly Circus, China Town, Covent Garden, Mayfair, Regent St, Trafalgar Square's National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, Fortnum and Mason and the Embankment, are all minutes away, as is Leicester Square Underground station (linking to London Waterloo). Please provide a valid credit card upon arrival at the hotel.
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Flemings Mayfair

This 5 star hotel is located in the city centre of London and was established in 1851. It is close to the Buckingham Palace and the nearest station is Green Park. The Hotel has a restaurant, 2 bars, a conference room and a fitness centre/gym.
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Business hotels

Royal Garden

The hotel is conveniently situated in the heart of London's Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, overlooking Kensington Palace, in the west part of the metropolis. Just a short drive from the M40, M4 and M25 motorways, the hotel is also just minutes from Earls Court and the Olympia Exhibition Halls, and is within a short drive of London's financial district. The hotel offers contemporary accommodation with a choice of 3 bars and two restaurants. The Tenth is the fine-dining, award-winning restaurant, which has stunning views of the London skyline. This combines with conference and banqueting facilities, and a business centre open 24 hours a day. There are 396 guest rooms in total. All of the spacious guest rooms offer a work area with a desk, a comfy chair and a coffee table, in which to either work or relax. A private en suite bathroom, personal safe, minibar and many additional comforts are included in the room. A large proportion of bedrooms are designated non-smoking. Single occupancy rooms feature a double bed and have views of either Kensington Palace and Gardens and the Royal Household Mews, or look out over a buzzing Kensington High Street and the neighbourhood's quaint 'Mary Poppins' rooftops. Other rooms, which are for double occupancy, feature either a twin or king-size bed. Like the single rooms, views include the green vistas of Kensington Gardens, or the city's rooftops. North-facing rooms overlook the quiet Royal Household Mews. To help guests relax after a busy day, the hotel provides a health spa, featuring state-of-the-art exercise equipment, a sauna and a steam room. Other services provided at an additional charge include massage and physiotherapy treatments. An exquisite, extensive breakfast buffet is on offer to guests on a daily basis. In addition to this, it is possible to pay a visit to the excellent hotel restaurants where the finest wines and dishes are available.

Things to do in London, United Kingdom

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in London, United Kingdom

Find clues in your surroundings.
Digital Voucher90 minutes

Sherlock Holmes audio walking tour game where YOU solve the case

An exciting Sherlock Holmes audio tour game where you step into the story and become the detective! Join Dr John Watson on a walking tour through the Marylebone area of London. He will tell you the classic Sherlock story “The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle”, as well as guide you to the spots where the action takes place. You will experience Sherlock’s Victorian London, as you assist in cracking the case of the missing blue jewel! * This audio tour is self-guided via a GPS-based app downloaded to your smartphone. * There will be clues and interactions hidden in your surroundings – features that are triggered and show up on your mobile screen when you get close to them. * Through sound, images, and intriguing puzzles you will be challenged to use the art of deduction in your quest to become a detective. * This walking tour is perfect for anyone who wants to go sightseeing in London in a fun and flexible manner, as well as for audio book- and puzzle game fans!
Our guests enjoying Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
Digital Voucher360 minutes

The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi

Experience the perfect way to see many London landmarks in a short amount of time with a knowledgeable driver guide and get a great overview of the city. See the most popular locations that are London's essence including 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites + 2 Tudor Palaces, secret locations and hidden gems all packed into one fast-paced day. You will have time for photo opportunities and short walks in iconic sights to see most of London in 6 hours such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Westminster Cathedral, Horse Guards, Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, Marble Arch, Kensington Palace, London Eye, River Thames, Shakespeare Globe, Borough Market, London Bridge, Great Fire Monument, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, British Museum, Abbey Road. --------------- Important: No tickets are required for this tour and you won't be entering any attractions, only passing by and stopping for photo opportunities. ---------------
Door to door transportation from the Arrivals Hall to Departures.
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Heathrow Layover Experience: Private Full-Day Black Cab Tour

This is our best seller 4-hour Premier Classic London Tour experience including Heathrow airport pick-up and drop-off making it a 7-hour experience that will give you all the eye candy you could wish for. See as many of London’s iconic landmarks, including 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites + 2 Tudor Palaces. All the essentials ticked off, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, London Bridge, River Thames, Tower Bridge, St. Pauls's Cathedral and many more. You will have time for photo opportunities and short walks in iconic sights to see most of London, and feel free to tell your guide on the day what you would like to see and not to miss. --------------- Important: No tickets are required for this tour and you won't be entering any attractions, only passing by and stopping for photo opportunities. ---------------
In the Great Hall of the medieval Guildhall building.
Digital Voucher240 minutes

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a London Taxi

Experience the perfect way to see many London landmarks in a short amount of time with a knowledgeable driver guide and see the most popular locations that are the essence of the city, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London. Half a day is all you need to taste the real London with a cabbie who knows the city inside out, hidden secrets and all where a busload of 50 people can’t. Even tips on where to grab the best coffee. You will have time for photo opportunities and short walks in iconic sights to see most of London in 4 hours, and feel free to tell your guide on the day what you would like to see and not to miss. --------------- Important: No tickets are required for this tour and you won't be entering any attractions, only passing by and stopping for photo opportunities. ---------------
London: Queen & Freddie Mercury Quest Experience
Digital Voucher75 minutes

London: Queen & Freddie Mercury Quest Experience

Embark on a quest around London by solving clues that will help take you to iconic places in the life of Queen - the famous rock band, all with the help of your smartphone. Unlock new stories as you discover on your own Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, Kensington Gardens, and more. + Walk past Freddie Mercury's initial home + Visit the neighborhood where all Queen band members lived + Discover the places where Queen held some of their most iconic concerts Play the role of a journalist who gets a mysterious letter about the whereabouts of a lost Queen verse from 1977. Can you find the verse? Solve a clue to reveal exact directions to your next stop on the tour, without the need of a map, GPS, or a physical guide. Pause the game at any time, and restart whenever you want from the last place you visited.
Learn interesting facts
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Hidden London: Secrets of Westminster (Private)

Immerse yourself in the royal history of London, admire famous landmarks and enjoy a march along The Mall with the Queen’s Guards on this private, off-the-beaten-path tour. Discover quaint streets, beautiful parks, and the secrets of the British Royal family. We stay away from the crowds by walking through alleyways and side streets whilst hearing tales of monarchs from medieval to modern times and enjoying a delicious cup of tea. Highlights: - Stories of Buckingham Palace, the Queen's London residence - An intimate spot to watch the Guard Change - Exterior views of Westminster Abbey and Big Ben - A visit to ancient stores that hold Royal Warrants – learn where the Royals shop! - A stroll around St. James’s Park, a green Royal oasis - The history of St. James’s Palace, a Tudor gem built by Henry VIII for Anne Boleyn - The secrets of Kensington Palace, William and Kate's home - Stunning architecture from the times of Victoria and Albert A truly British walk! PRICE IS PER GROUP
Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Digital Voucher75 minutes

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Explore two of London's most beautiful and famous Royal Parks with me. As a Londoner, I’ve grown up visiting Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens and I know all they have to offer, from their best spots to little-known vistas. The parks are filled with stories and secrets that most visitors miss, but if you take this self guided audio tour, you won’t be one of them. Some of the tour’s highlights include: • Speakers’ Corner where you can find the finest free show in London. • The story of the creation of the Royal Parks. How did we end up with over 600 acres of parkland in an area where land prices are through the roof? • The Serpentine Lake where you can relax and enjoy the swans • Memorials dedicated to Diana, Princess of Wales, including a fountain and playground • How to spot the beautiful birds around Kensington Gardens • A grand view of Kensington Palace • A 900-year-old oak tree and the little elves that hide within it.
Full Day London Pick & Mix Customized Tour
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Full Day London Pick & Mix Customized Tour

This is the London tour program that you desire. Your choices with no hassle and no time wasted and simply for the person who is tired of comparing agency tours only to find you always have to give up one thing for something else. Just pick the highlights you wish to see & visit from the list below and we will create your very private and bespoke dream itinerary in London with our APTG qualified blue badge tourist guides. Now you can have it all with "Tour it your way" Tell us what you want to see and we will carefully plan and customize your full-day London dream-tour with everything you can imagine Select from places like the Big Ben, London Eye, the British Museum, the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and many more. Transportation in the city is no problem at all. We will use our massive public transportation for you. No waiting in long lines - No traffic - More time for fun and frolic. Just ask us.

Why People Love London, United Kingdom

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in London, United Kingdom

R
Rmac1111
4
Sep 2021
Sherlock Holmes audio walking tour game where YOU solve the case
Sherlock Holmes audio walking tour game where YOU solve the case
Sherlock Holmes audio walking tour game where YOU solve the case
Sherlock Holmes audio walking tour game where YOU solve the case
Good way of touring round the Mayfair area. Some nice spots along the route. The puzzles were fairly simple - this would be ideal for families with kids.
R
Redwingbob19
5
Jun 2023
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
Mark is such a nice guy, so knowledgeable and accommodating. Truly a memorable day. We saw so much of London including some great sights that we had never thought of. If you have anything you think you might want to see, tell Mark and he will get you there.
B
Bridget_S
5
Jun 2023
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
Our family enjoyed a day with tour guide, Gary! He was exceptional! Shared lots of history, took us to several London points of interest, stopped for photos, and so much more! Highly recommend this tour and Gary as your guide. Such a wonderful way to see London! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Frequently Asked Questions about London

What are some must-see attractions in London?

There are so many amazing attractions in London! Some popular ones include the British Museum, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. If you're looking for something more off the beaten path, consider checking out the street art in Shoreditch or visiting the beautiful Kew Gardens.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in London?

While London may not seem like an outdoorsy city, there are actually plenty of fun activities to do outside. Take a stroll along the beautiful South Bank or rent a bike and pedal your way through Hyde Park. You can also take a boat tour of the River Thames or visit the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens.

What are some great places to eat in London?

London is a foodie's paradise with so many amazing restaurants to choose from. Some popular options include Dishoom for Indian food, Hawksmoor for steak, and The Wolseley for classic British cuisine. For something more casual, check out Borough Market or head to Chinatown for some delicious Asian food.

What are some kid-friendly activities to do in London?

London is a great city for families with kids! Take them to the Natural History Museum or the Science Museum for a fun and educational experience. They'll also love the London Zoo or the SEA LIFE London Aquarium. For something a bit more unique, consider a visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour or a ride on the London Eye.

What are some great neighborhoods to explore in London?

London is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. Check out Notting Hill for its colorful houses and charming shops, or head to Camden for its alternative music scene and famous markets. Shoreditch is a great spot for street art and trendy bars, while South Kensington is known for its museums and beautiful architecture.

What are some great day trips from London?

There are so many amazing places to visit just a short train ride away from London. Take a trip to the charming city of Bath with its Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture. Or head to Oxford for a day of exploring the famous university and strolling through the picturesque streets. Other popular day trips include Stonehenge, Brighton, and Cambridge.

What are some affordable accommodations in London?

London can be an expensive city, but there are still plenty of affordable accommodations available. Check out the YHA hostel chain for clean and comfortable dorm rooms or private rooms. You can also find good deals on Airbnb or Booking.com. For something a bit more unique, consider a stay at one of the city's many quirky boutique hotels.

What are some hidden gems in London?

London is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered! Check out Leighton House Museum for its stunning Orientalist interiors or the Sir John Soane's Museum for its eclectic collection of art and artifacts. Take a stroll through the beautiful Kyoto Garden in Holland Park or visit the stunning St. Dunstan in the East church ruins in the City of London.

What are some iconic London experiences?

There are some experiences in London that are truly iconic! Take a ride on a red double-decker bus or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. Visit one of the city's many markets, like Portobello Road or Camden Market, or catch a show in the West End. And of course, don't forget to take a photo at the iconic red phone booths and black cabs.

What is the best time of year to visit London?

London is a great city to visit year-round, but the best time to go depends on your preferences. If you're looking for warm weather and long days, visit in the summer months of June through August. If you want to experience the city during the holiday season, visit in December for the festive decorations and markets. Spring and fall can be great times to visit as well, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds.