Feature: London Hotspots

Now that all the first year students have settled in, it’s time to get to know your surroundings! St Mary’s University College, Twickenham offers a list of the popular tourist attractions and the more unusual sights for those freshers not familiar with the city. 1. Open Top Bus Tours. Looking for a fun way to see the city of London? This company offers the chance to view the city in the luxury of an open top bus, complete with a knowledgeable tour guide. 2. Up at The O2. The well renowned O2 arena located in North Greenwich now provides the opportunity to view London from its peak! You and your friends can climb up this iconic building and take in the sights either during the day or at night. 3. Ice skating. Now that Christmas is only three months away London begins building pop up ice rinks all over the city. If you’re looking for somewhere local steeped in history, then check out Hampton Court Palace, or for more of a winter wonderland then visit the beautiful Hyde Park. A full list of ice rinks in the city can be found here. 4. Football. London boasts 13 professional football teams, more than any other city in the world. Make the most of this opportunity by booking tickets to see one of the top premiership matchups at Chelsea or Arsenal’s home ground. 5. Rugby. With Twickenham Stadium and Harlequins Rugby Club only round the corner we’d strongly advise a visit to both. Get tickets for an England Cup tie and soak up the local atmosphere both in town and at the two stadiums. 6. Museums and Art Galleries. London has a wealth of interesting places to immerse yourself in History or Art. Why not visit the Natural History or Science Museum and the Tate Modern or the V&A for a real taste of London? 7. Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. A must on everyone’s tick list, these popular attractions can only be truly appreciated in the flesh. Stick around for Big Ben’s chime and inspect the grounds where all of Britain’s political decisions are made! 8. Street Life. London’s vibrant food and clothes markets offer a unique view on parts of the city’s culture. Some of the best locations include Brick Lane and Borough Market for food or Shepard’s Bush and Camden for clothes. Taste something sensational whilst grabbing a bargain. 9. The London Eye. Another opportunity to see London from a breath-taking viewpoint, it’s also open during the day and at night. 10. Shopping. Being the fashion capital of the world, London is naturally a brilliant place to shop for clothes. Locally, the Kingston and Westfield Shopping Centres will cater for all your needs, whilst Oxford Street and Carnaby Street are a must for those looking for an inner-city shopping experience.  London is a place where every type of style is accessible, you’re guaranteed to find something to suit you.