Whirlwind First Trip to London
- Day 1 (3 schedule items)
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- Flight arrives London in the evening
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- A London, United Kingdom
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[Full Description]
London is the capital and largest city of both the United Kingdom and of England, and is the largest city in Western Europe. Situated on the River Thames in southeast England, London is historically one of the great world cities and remains a global capital of politics, culture, fashion, trade and finance. London will serve as the host city for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games.
London boasts a vast number of attractions for the traveler. Among the most famous are Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster (including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament) in Westminster. Shoppers can head to Portobello Road, which claims to be the world’s largest antiques market, for antiques, souvenirs and other knick-knacks or simply a walk through time.
London has a large variety of shows from fringe to Broadway-like musicals and productions. The West End district is where you’ll find the last type, with famous imported Broadway shows and some very good local productions.
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- B Claridge's - London, United Kingdom - TravelMuse
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Claridge's - London, United Kingdom - TravelMuse
Situated in London's grand borough of Mayfair, the 203-room Claridge's burst into the city's social scene in the 1898 period. The decor is reminiscent of this period and has recently undergone a 45 million dollar renovation in an effort to preserve its charm and comfort. Gordon Ramsay at Claridge??s restaurant is one of the world??s finest. Guests can enjoy cocktails at Claridge's Bar, one of London's hot and convivial meeting places, and afternoon tea is served daily in the newly restored Foyer and Reading Room. On the property's top floor, guests can visit the Olympus Health and Fitness Suite, a fully-equipped exercise room and spa, or can use the swimming pool at Claridge??s sister property, The Berkeley. Featured hotel services include a chauffeur-driven car service upon request, valet, laundry, dry cleaning, rapid pressing, babysitting and special services for small children, a 24-hour concierge, and a hair salon. Business services can also be arranged though the hotel..[Full Description]
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- Day 2 (11 schedule items)
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- C Westminster Abbey, London
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Westminster Abbey is regarded as a Medieval architectural masterpiece. It has been the venue for most of the country's coronations since 1066 and for numerous other Royal occasions. At present, it is still a church dedicated to regular worship and to the celebration of great events in the British nation. Westminster Abbey features the final resting places or commemorations of a large number of famous poets, scientists, musicians, artists, authors and more.[Full Description]
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- D Houses of Parliament, London
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For over 900 years this impressive assemblage of Gothic buildings has been the home of the British government. The building covers an area of eight acres and consists of 1100 rooms, 100 staircases and 11 courtyards. The House of Lords occupies the southern end of the building while the House of Commons occupies the area to the north. The best view of this massive expanse can be seen from nearby Parliament Square. Within the Houses of Parliament there is Westminster Hall, the Crypt Church, Members' Lobbies, the Commons Library and the Peers Library. The tower containing Big Ben looms just outside. To attend PMQ (Prime Minister's Question Time) in the House of Commons, UK citizens need to contact their local MP in advance. Otherwise, there is a queue at St Stephen's entrance.[Full Description]
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- E Big Ben, London
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"Big Ben" is the name of the clock inside the famous tower that also forms part of the Houses of Parliament. Its impressive mechanism weighs in at over 13.5 tons, and the pendulum, which beats once every two seconds, is 13 feet long and weighs 690 pounds. The clock was named "Big Ben" after the First Commissioner of Works, and since 1885 a light above it has been lit while the House of Commons is in session. UK residents can schedule a time to climb the clock tower. Unfortunately, non-citizens of the UK are not permitted to climb the clock tower.[Full Description]
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- F Number 10 Downing Street, London
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Ever since Sir Robert Walpole took up residence here in 1721, this rather ordinary, dark brick town-house has been the official residence for Britain's prime ministers. Behind the world-famous front entrance, with its black door guarded vigilantly by a good old British "bobby," lies a network of formal rooms, offices, private apartments, kitchens and cellars. While access to the general public is strictly forbidden, several hundred school children, selected by visiting MP's, are permitted to visit each year. Situated on Downing Street, Number 10 Downing Street makes a good visit, considering the residents of this house don't even have their own key.[Full Description]
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- G Trafalgar Square, London
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Trafalgar Square was built following the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The man responsible for this famous naval victory, which finally destroyed French naval power and secured Britain from invasion, was Admiral Horatio Nelson. A column, with an 18ft statue of Nelson at the summit is the centerpiece of the Square. At the base of the column are the renowned Landseer lions. Renovations in 2003 removed traffic lanes to make room for a sizable staircase, connecting the National Portrait Gallery to the square. The National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery border one side of the Square, and it's a good place to sit and soak up the atmosphere on a sunny day. The Square is also famous for the large number of pigeons that congregate there. It's one of the main places that visitors come to take pictures.[Full Description]
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- H National Gallery, London
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National Gallery is a magnificent Georgian edifice, on the northern side of Trafalgar Square, housing a massive collection of Western European Art. Works of Master Leonardo Da Vinci can be found in the Sainsbury wing of the gallery, alongside Botticelli and Bellini. Titian, Michelangelo and Raphael can be found in the West Wing. Whereas in the North Wing, Rubens, Rembrandt and Caravaggio are located, and Seurat, Canaletto, Degas and Monet are in the East Wing. A portable CD guide is available in six different languages.[Full Description]
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- I Covent Garden Film Studios, London
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The Covent Garden Film Studios is 5000 square feet used for photo shoots, press launches, art exhibitions and more. It has hosted artists such as the Second Movement Company. The versatile space is good for a number of functions as rental space and also features include a large office space, kitchen, restrooms, and off-street parking. For more information contact Inproductions.[Full Description]
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- J Porters English Restaurant, London
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A typical English venue, Porters English Restaurant offers a wide range of menus to choose from. Visit this place for a refreshing cup of tea with cakes and fruit scones. Take your kids along as this place also offers a great food selection on the Kids Menu. The minimalist decor features wooden flooring and wooden tables. A friendly staff, and the lively and casual atmosphere at Porters English Restaurant makes it a very popular place amongst the locals as well as the tourists.[Full Description]
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- K Buckingham Palace, London
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Buckingham Palace has been the official abode of British royalty since 1837. The forecourt is the setting for one of London's most popular tourist events: The Changing of the Guard. The Mews are working stables, where you can see the Queen's horses and state carriages. The Buckingham Palace state rooms are only open during certain days in August and September. Just outside the front of the palace, you can enjoy the Queen Victoria Memorial Gardens and the Victoria Memorial, a striking and impressive sculpture facing the Mall. The visiting hours vary seasonally.[Full Description]
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- L Tower of London
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The Tower of London is mainly perceived as a medieval place of imprisonment and execution. Nine hundred years of history are embraced within its thick, turreted walls. Even though the Tower's violent years are long gone, an aura of death and medieval torture remains. Today, guided tours are available. The main attraction for most visitors is the breathtaking Crown Jewels. It is also a chance to see the legendary ravens who live within the walls. Folklore has it that if they ever leave, Britain will again fall to foreign invasion. Interestingly enough, orders have been received to clip their wings![Full Description]
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- M Salisbury (The), London
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The Salisbury is an exquisite example of a dignified drinking den. Red velvet seating, cut glass screens, elaborate woodwork, bronze nymphs and marble pillars provide an elegant backdrop to this authentic Victorian pub, which was opened as a gin palace in 1892. Its location in the heart of the theatre district means it is constantly packed, but prices are reasonable nonetheless. A good selection of real ales are available, and bar snacks are available from noon-7:30p M-Su.[Full Description]
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- Day 3 (8 schedule items)
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- N Russell Square, London
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This square is a large garden in the middle of Bloomsbury and is close to the main buildings of the University of London and the British Museum. Russell Square was once a upper middle class neighborhood during the 18th century and one area of the square holds a plaque that commemorates the fact that T.S. Eliot worked in a building there for many years as the poetry editor of the magazine, Faber & Faber. The garden has gone through different transformations during its existence, but currently houses a cafe and the centerpiece is a fountain that sprays water from jets and has become quite popular with young children during the summer.[Full Description]
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- O British Museum, London
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The British Museum is one of London's top tourist attractions as well as a major scholarly resource. Its collection was bequeathed to the nation in 1753 and the Museum's distinctive Greek revivalist structure was built during the 19th Century. The collection expanded massively during the heyday of the British Empire, leading to the Museum's notoriety for plundering sources all over the globe and leaving it with over 6.5 million objects to look after. The displays cover about 14 acres and it is simply too tiring to tackle them all in one visit. The best way is to pick a collection or exhibition that interests you, explore that, and make return visits. And if you haven't got time for a proper visit, drop in for a coffee at the lovely Court Restaurant. Admission is free but charges may be made for temporary exhibitions.[Full Description]
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- P Bow Wine Vault, London
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The best thing about Bow Wine Vault is that it gives you a choice of two completely different dining areas. You can either enjoy your meal alfresco, when the weather permits or, you can have a romantic vault dining experience. The food served is world cuisine, but certain dishes may have an Eastern flavor to them. Begin with the Chilled Spring Soup du Jour, Fish Cake with lobster sauce and end with the cheese of your choice. Head to the wine bar on the ground floor and wash it all down with a glass of your favorite wine.[Full Description]
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- Q St. Paul's Cathedral, London
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First built in 694 but destroyed by the Great Fire in 1666, the beautiful building that stands today was designed by Christopher Wren and completed in 1710. St. Paul's has been host to many great occasions including the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill in 1965 and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. There are numerous treasures to see and experience in St. Paul's - a visit is a must. However, the Whispering Gallery is worth a special mention. Just a whisper against the blank circular wall can be heard 42 meters away on the opposite side. Admission is GBP10 for adults; seniors GBP9; students GBP8.50; children (under 16) GBP3.50; concession GBP7. There is a small additional charge to visit the galleries.[Full Description]
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- R Tate Modern, London
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Opened in 2000, Tate Modern has amazed industry insiders, art lovers and tourists alike. The museum, located among the drab, concrete blocks of Bankside, has few of its original features; it used to be a 1950's power station. Inside, there are many innovative and attention-grabbing works, with a variety from 1900 to the present, from the most important artists of the century to today's rising stars. Admission is free for most exhibits. Check website for further details.[Full Description]
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- S Westminster Bridge, London
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As William Wordsworth so famously observed, Westminster Bridge is a good sightseeing spot. From here a visitor can take in a panorama spanning a view of Whitehall to the Ministry of Defense to Hungerford Bridge off into the distance. Crossing the Thames River, the green bridge accommodates both vehicles and pedestrians. Built in 1862, the iron-wrought structure has seven arches and stands as the oldest of the Thames central bridges.[Full Description]
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- T London Eye (Millennium Wheel)
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Known as both the London Eye and the Millennium Wheel, this huge 443-foot ferris wheel on the South Bank gives a fabulous bird's eye view of London. Its inception in the beginning of 2000 honored the Millennium; and the spectacular views stretch for 25 miles on a clear day to include views of Windsor and Tunbridge Wells. Up to 25 people can fit in each of the wheel's "capsules." The wheel turns surprisingly slowly; it takes thirty minutes to go round, so there's plenty of time to spot landmarks and take photos. Hours vary by season. Check website for timings.[Full Description]
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- U Globe Theatre - see a show, London
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Visit the glorious reconstruction of Shakespeare's original playhouse, built some four centuries later. This version of the Bards venue also boasts of the first thatched roof in London since the Great Fire. The partially open-air theater provides a standing area and some seating provisions. The Globe Theatre Company, Shakespeare's Globe Exhibition and Globe Education work together to provide a historical and educational experience while putting on some of the finest performances in this fabulous theater. Come and soak up the atmosphere even if you are unfamiliar with the Bard's work. Tickets can be bought via the internet or directly from the Globe Box Office.[Full Description]
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- Day 4 (10 schedule items)
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- V Windsor Castle, London
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Windsor Castle gives you the chance to snoop around a royal residence and track the history of the English monarchy. There's been a royal castle here since the time of William the Conqueror although it has been altered and rebuilt through the centuries. Part of the Castle is still used as a Royal Residence, and Prince Edward married Sophie Rhys-Jones in St. George's Chapel in 1999. The Castle is huge, so people tend to head for the most spectacular bits - the State Apartments, St George's Chapel, the Gallery and the delightful Queen Mary's Dolls' House. Works of art, antique furniture, curiosities and impressive architecture reflect the tastes of many different royal generations. Crowds and queues are the norm in summer, so leave plenty of time. The chocolate-boxy town of Windsor itself and Windsor Great Park are there to be explored too. The timings vary as per the season. Check website for more details.[Full Description]
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- W Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens, London
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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens
An oasis of tranquility in central London, Hyde Park, together with Kensington Gardens to the west, is the largest of the three royal parks. On the north-east side is Speaker's Corner, a traditional haven of free speech. The Serpentine boating lake, complete with a designated swimming area, and the Serpentine Gallery is a famous tourist spot. The Albert Memorial and the statue of the mischievous character Peter Pan is housed at the Kensington Gardens also attract a crowd. Separated by the stately Serpentine Bridge many visitors to the park choose to sunbathe near Diana Fountain or simply dip their feet into the water. Hyde Park open at 5 am in the morning while the Kensington Gardens open at 6 am.[Full Description]
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- X Grosvenor Square, London
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Located in the exclusive Mayfair district, Grosvenor Square was established in 1721 and met with immediate popularity. Named for Sir Richard Grosvenor and referenced in several plays, movies, and songs, this square has always been the "in" place to live among the aristocracy. The square's most popular reference comes in "Street Fighting Man" by the Rolling Stones. Mick Jagger witnessed a rally and riot here at the American Embassy against the Vietnam War in 1968 and wrote the song shortly afterwards. Whether you're here for the bourgeois atmosphere, the embassy, the culture, or the Stones you are sure to enjoy your visit.[Full Description]
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- Y Oxford Street, London
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Visiting Oxford Street is essential on any trip to London. Towards the end of the 18th Century it was bought by the Earl of Oxford and soon after this, Oxford Street started to become popular for shopping. When Debenhams and Selfridges opened in 1909 the street became the place to go for good quality shops. It now has over 600 shops and there are over 200 bars, cafes and restaurants in close walking distance as well as many other places of interest. Many of the more popular stores consider their branch in Oxford Street to be the flagship store and the one where they have their special openings and promotions.[Full Description]
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- Z Bond Street, London
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Named after Sir Thomas Bond, the financial controller of the Queen's Household at the court of King Charles I in the 17th century, the Bond Street area was swampy, uninhabited and near a plague pit - an unsavory area where highwaymen preyed on passers-by and noblemen fought duels. By the 1850s, however, Bond Street had undergone something of a renaissance and become a place lined with fashionable shops, where members of high society would stroll the streets. And it has remained so, although tourists and shop-a-holics are its main visitors now. Nonetheless, Bond Street still has many traders who display the Royal Warrant and maintain a tradition of individual service, with many leading fashion houses where made-to-measure garments can be purchased. For lovers of art, high fashion and elegant clothes, jewelery and leather goods, there is no equal to Bond Street. Acquisitions and changes have enhanced its reputation further over the years with key fashion houses - such as Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Louis Vuitton - opening shops.[Full Description]
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- a Burlington Arcade, London
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Burlington Arcade, Britain's first shopping arcade, opened on the 20th of March, 1819, at the low cost of 49,000 British Pounds, and very little has changed since. It is relaxing place where you will find excellent service and a wide range of first class products. The area is patrolled by the Beadles, who are the smallest private police force in existence, and have been there since the arcade opened. They even still wear their classic Edwardian frock coats and gold braided top hats. Each shop is rated as an antique and is therefore protected by the Realm, and number 61 is an ancient monument.[Full Description]
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- b Fortnum & Mason, London
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Here, amongst Fortnum & Mason's luxurious surroundings, the British Empire lives on. Small and always heaving with tourists, Fortnum and Mason is much more than just the Queen's grocer. With full carpeting and chandeliers, department store shopping takes on a whole different meaning. F&M's packaging is traditional and elegant, and is free when you buy any gift (except food, which is a pity, as the Food Hall is F&M's highlight) and there's a vast selection of own-brand teas, coffees, wines and provisions to choose from. Also, make sure you stop to see the curious fountain by the doors. But F&M is most famous for its inimitable hampers.[Full Description]
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- c Piccadilly Circus, London
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For many years, Piccadilly Circus - at the junction of five busy streets - has been a major London landmark, seen by many as the capital's center. In the daytime it's a bustling area filled with shoppers, business people and tourists. But visit in the evening to see the area really come alive, with its sparkling illuminated signs and heady mix of clubbers and couples ready for a big evening out. At the heart of Piccadilly is a fountain topped with the aluminium statue of an archer. Although affectionately known as Eros by Londoners, it's actually the Angel of Christian Charity by Sir Alfred Gilbert, and it was so unpopular when first unveiled that he opted for self-imposed exile. Today the statue is one of London's most famous sites and a haven for tourists and romantic couples alike. This is truly the gateway to the West End.[Full Description]
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- d St. James's Restaurant for tea, London
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Located in London's most prestigious grocery store, Fortnum and Mason, this restaurant pays homage to the Edwardian era. If you're up for a light meal then try out the beautifully presented pastries, candies, breads and much more. Sit down for the traditional English afternoon tea session exclusive to this place. With a hushed ambiance, live music and broad-windowed views of Piccadilly, this eatery has become a popular favorite.[Full Description]
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- e Criterion, London
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Top celebrity chef Marco Pierre White has chosen a remarkable venue for one of his restaurants. With mosaics, heavy swags, vaulted ceilings and outsized mirrors, it is unquestionably opulent and classy - but the style is more of a trendy restaurant than an haute cuisine establishment. The cuisine is French and is appropriate for special occasions and smart business lunches and dinners. But be warned, there is a strict two-hour seating limit.[Full Description]
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- Day 5 (1 schedule items)
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- Flight departs London in the morning
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