Have you recently joined St Mary’s University, Twickenham? Perhaps you are new to the city? Either way, it’s a great time to familiarise yourself with the surrounding area and the rest of London before deadlines and course assignment begin to stack up!
Here’s a list of some of London’s biggest and must-see tourist attractions:
1. The Shard
Located near London Bridge, the Shard is an 87-storey skyscraper that only opened in February 2013. Standing at a whopping 306 metres, the Shard is the tallest building in the European Union and the second-tallest free-standing structure in the UK. With a building as high as this, you can expect to soak up amazing views of London’s skyline.
2. 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.
3. Tower of London
This historic landmark was founded towards the end of 1066 by William Conqueror as part of the Norman Conquest of England. The Tower keeps a group of ravens on the grounds at all times due to an urban myth: should all the ravens ever leave the tower then it, the British crown and British kingdom will fall. Want to find out what all the fuss is about? Book yourself a place here.
4. 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.
5. Buckingham Palace
Built in 1703 and originally known as Buckingham House, it is one of the most recognisable and well-known landmarks in the country. Although it is the official home of the Queen, she actually spends most of her time at Windsor Castle.
6. Sport
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.
Or, if you’re a fan of rugby, we recommend visiting Twickenham Stadium and Harlequins Rugby Club as they’re both round the corner. Get tickets for an England Cup tie and soak up the local atmosphere both in town and at the two stadiums.
7.The Gherkin
Although most widely known as The Gherkin, its official name is 30 St Mary Axe. It is one of the tallest buildings in the City of London (although not bigger than the Shard, of course). It is located at the centre of London’s financial districts and offers a wide range of restaurants and bars, as well as premium retail outlets.
8. 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?
9. 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!
10. 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.
11. Tower Bridge
One of London’s most iconic landmarks, Tower Bridge is a must-see destination! A visit to its Exhibition is a great way to explore and experience the most famous bridge in the world, as there’s plenty to see and do. For instance, guests can travel 42 metres above the River Thames to look at stunning panoramic views of the city.
12. The London Eye
Another opportunity to see London from a breath-taking viewpoint, it’s also open during the day and at night.
13. 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.
2. 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.
3. Tower of London
This historic landmark was founded towards the end of 1066 by William Conqueror as part of the Norman Conquest of England. The Tower keeps a group of ravens on the grounds at all times due to an urban myth: should all the ravens ever leave the tower then it, the British crown and British kingdom will fall. Want to find out what all the fuss is about? Book yourself a place here.
4. 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.
5. Buckingham Palace
Built in 1703 and originally known as Buckingham House, it is one of the most recognisable and well-known landmarks in the country. Although it is the official home of the Queen, she actually spends most of her time at Windsor Castle.
6. Sport
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.
Or, if you’re a fan of rugby, we recommend visiting Twickenham Stadium and Harlequins Rugby Club as they’re both round the corner. Get tickets for an England Cup tie and soak up the local atmosphere both in town and at the two stadiums.
7.The Gherkin
Although most widely known as The Gherkin, its official name is 30 St Mary Axe. It is one of the tallest buildings in the City of London (although not bigger than the Shard, of course). It is located at the centre of London’s financial districts and offers a wide range of restaurants and bars, as well as premium retail outlets.
8. 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?
9. 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!
10. 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.
11. Tower Bridge
One of London’s most iconic landmarks, Tower Bridge is a must-see destination! A visit to its Exhibition is a great way to explore and experience the most famous bridge in the world, as there’s plenty to see and do. For instance, guests can travel 42 metres above the River Thames to look at stunning panoramic views of the city.
12. The London Eye
Another opportunity to see London from a breath-taking viewpoint, it’s also open during the day and at night.
13. 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.Media enquiries
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