Sam and I traveled to London for my best friend’s wedding (Congrats Victoria and Samuel!). We had only a few short days here. So if you are like us and have a limited amount of time in the city, here are the top London icons and must-see sights!
(If you want to skip, scroll down to the London sights)
London holds a special place in my heart. It is the first country I visited (outside the United States) when I was just 16 years old. We landed in the evening, so it was hard to make out anything in the city, plus we were pretty tired from the long plane ride and quickly fell asleep in the back of the taxi. As we headed to the Tube the next morning, I felt as if I had been transported to another world. I fell in love and my passion for exploring new and different places grew!
After that summer I took every opportunity to visit London. I have been a few more times in the summer and in the Fall. Each time I got to explore more and even got out of the city to see some English countryside!
Iconic Sights:
Big Ben
When I hear the word London, I think of red double buses and the massive clock – more commonly known as Big Ben. Big Ben is actually the name of the bell that sits in the Bell Tower, completed in 1859. Side note: The Bell Tower was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 in honor of the Diamond Jubilee of the late Queen Elizabeth.
Houses of Parliament
Located right next door is the Houses of Parliament, this is where the House of Commons and the House of Lords meet to conduct government business (exciting!).
Westminster Abbey
If you choose to visit anything in London, make it Westminster Abbey. One of my favorite spots is this gorgeous church plays an important part in British history. It has been the place for Coronation since 1066! Not to mention it was the wedding place of Queen Elizabeth to Prince Philip in 1947 and Prince William to Duchess Kate in 2011.
London Eye
Another icon associated with London is the Coca-Cola London Eye. It is the world’s largest observation wheel, sitting at around 442ft (135m). It was originally supposed to be a temporary structure but has become so popular, the lease was extended to become a permanent attraction.
St Paul Cathedral
One of London’s oldest icons is St Paul Cathedral! This place is stunning! My favorite is the painted ceilings! Pictures are not allowed inside, so you must visit and see for yourself! Climb to the top of the dome to witness stunning views of London! It was the tallest building in London until 1967!
Shakespeare Globe Theater
Sometimes hard to spot, the Shakespeare Globe Theater is a great way to spend the evening! If you aren’t lucky enough to see the plays in the summer months, take a tour and see what a night at the theater was like in the 1600s. See what is playing, here!
Tower of London
The Tower of London is a great way to spend the morning! Be sure to listen to the (free) guided tour by the Beefeaters! Stop by the raven’s home to learn more about why they call the Tower their home. Tip: Get there bright and early, so you are first in line to see the Crown Jewels!
Tower Bridge
As you are exiting the Tower of London, on the riverside, look up and you will see the Tower Bridge. No, this is not the London Bridge, that is the next one over. Tower Bridge was built over 125 years ago to ease the city traffic, while still maintaining the river traffic. Enjoy a nice walk along the bridge, your choice top or bottom! 🙂
Buckingham Palace
Add Buckingham Palace to your London itinerary. This was Queen Elizabeth’s official London residence and of course the famous ‘waving’ balcony.
Although the staterooms are only open a few short weeks out of the year, be sure to stop by the Royal Mews and catch a glimpse of the royal carriages and cars.
10 Downing Street
Catch a glimpse of the famous 10 Downing Street, home of the current British Prime Minister.
Trafalgar Square
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the middle of the hustle and bustle of London. Take pictures of the lion statues or head into the National Gallery to see paintings by Van Gough and Claude Monet (my personal favorites).
Piccadilly Circus
If you are looking to do some shopping in London, head to Piccadilly! From the M & M World to major fashion designers, Piccadilly will leave you wondering why your wallet is empty. (No pun intended; pickpockets are more prone to act in this area).
Bonus Sights:
This is just a taste of places to see in the city. You could probably spend months there and still not see everything it has to offer. I am listing a few more places to visit below. These are not the most common places to visit or they are outside Central London, but still great options to add to your literary!
St Martin’s in the Fields – Right across from Trafalgar Square this chapel has been on-site since medieval times!
The Temple Church – was built by the knights templar in the mid-12th century as their English headquarters.
John Westley’s Chapel – built in place of an earlier chapel, this is where John Westley, the founder of Methodism, first preached.
Kensington Palace – if you follow the Royal Family at all, be sure to stop by and visit the former London home of Princess Diana.
Royal Albert Hall – spend the night in the most beloved concert hall!
Abbey Road – Any Beatles fans here? Don’t miss the iconic Abbey Road ‘walk’ picture!
Here is a map of all the iconic sights in Central London:
I would give yourself around 2-3 days if you really want to spend time at each location and don’t want to feel rushed.
Costs In Central London
If you are wanting to visit every spot in this guide, I highly recommend buying the London Pass. It is a great way to save a few pounds on your trip!
Houses of Parliament $20-30, depending on which tour you choose (not included on the London Pass)
Westminster Abbey $26 online, $28 at the Abbey
London Eye $33 online, $47 fast track (not included on the London Pass)
St Paul’s Cathedral $21 online, $26 at the cathedral
Shakespeare Globe Theater (guided tour) $21
Tower of London $30 online (includes Crown Jewels)
Tower Bridge $11
Buckingham Palace $30 (when the staterooms are open)
Royal Mews $15
Total: $196 (Online and including Buckingham Palace)
2-day Pass $123
3-day Pass $156
London is a busy, city stuffed with things to do. I hope this has given you some idea of what to see and do while you visit. This is just the surface of the sights in London!
Thank you for reading!
Until the next destination!
If you have any specific questions, do not hesitate to comment down below! Or you can email us!
Two countries in one? Spend the *Weekend in Wales* to experience the gorgeous landscape!
Want to enjoy a day out with nature, here are the *Top Parks and Gardens in London*
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Planning a trip to England *Here is the Ultimate Packing Guide*
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