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 Where The Beatles Came Together |
3 Abbey Road London NW8 9AY United Kingdom +44 20 7266 7000 http://www.abbeyroad.co.uk/ |
The Beatles' final masterpiece was recorded right here in this studio. The Fab Four loved the place so much that although some of their most notorious infighting occurred here, they decided to name the resulting album after it. The 1969 LP Abbey Road, the cover of which featured the boys crossing the street out in front of the studio, was a classics-packed triumph, and Abbey Road's epic legacy was cemented in the hearts and minds of rock aficionados forever. Today, the facility continues to operate as a fully functioning, top-of-the-line recording studio (and plays host to the very occasional concert event). See website for booking and online souvenirs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ceremonial gateway |
Trafalgar Square London, London WC2 United Kingdom http://www.roll-of-honour.com/... |
This ornate, Edwardian arch (which usually goes unnoticed) spans the entrance to The Mall from Trafalgar Square. Commissioned by Edward VII, the arch is actually a set of five arches in Portland stone which mark the royal route to St Paul's Cathedral. Traffic and pedestrians pass through the outer arches, while the central arch remains closed except when it is opened to allow the sovereign to pass through on state occasions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Victorian gilt |
Kensington Gardens London, London SW7 United Kingdom +44 1392 66 5858 http://www.exeter.gov.uk/index... |
Queen Victoria's memorial to her cherished husband, Albert, has recently emerged from a 10-year restoration project with its mosaics and gilding fully restored to their former glory. Sir Gilbert Scott designed the folly in 1872, and Queen Victoria unveiled it in 1876. Prince Albert sits on his throne holding the catalogue of the Great Exhibition of 1851. Beneath him lie sculptures of the museums, colleges and institutions that he inspired, as well as marble statues of animals representing the different continents. Allegorical figures of Agriculture, Commerce, Manufacture and Engineering also adorn the memorial. The Albert Memorial is especially beautiful when shining in the glow of the evening sun or when lit up at night. You'll find it at the southernmost part of Hyde Park, along the stretch of road known as Kensington Gore, opposite the Royal Albert Hall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Making medical history |
Praed Street St Mary's Hospital London, London W2 1NY United Kingdom +44 20 7886 6528 http://www.medicalmuseums.org/... |
In 1928 a young Scot named Alexander Fleming made a chance discovery which was to prove one of the most significant medical advances of the last century. This little museum in the archives of St Mary's Hospital sits on the actual site of the laboratory where Fleming made his discovery of penicillin. It features an exhibition, a reconstruction of his working environment and a video which narrates the extraordinary story. Amazingly, the scientific community ignored Fleming's work for more than a decade before a group of chemists in Oxford came up with a way of purifying penicillin. Fleming's perseverance eventually earned him a Nobel prize, and the rest, as they say, is history. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Boy Scout founder memorial and comfortable hostel |
65-67 Queen's Gate South Kensington London, London SW7 5JS United Kingdom +44 (0)20 30518173 www.meininger-hostels.com |
Right across the street from the Natural History Museum is this spacious concrete building, erected in 1961 in memory of Lord Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scout movement. Throughout the year, thousands of scouts and guides visit the house when in London, and the hostel - with 180 beds (all en suite) and conference facilities - plays host to around 300,000 people a year, from more than thirty different countries. Room charges are reduced for scouts and guides, but rates for the general public (given below) are still competitive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Money and much, much more |
Threadneedle Street London, London EC2R 8AH United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7601 5545 http://www.bankofengland.co.uk... |
The Museum is housed within the Bank of England, at the heart of London. It traces the history of the Bank, also known as the Old Lady, from its foundation by Royal Charter in 1694 to its role today as the nation's central bank. Exhibits include early writing equipment, weapons once used to defend the bank against robbers, coins, photographs and archaeological finds uncovered when the Bank was rebuilt between 1925 and 1939, which, oddly enough, include four extremely rare Roman gold bars. The Bank also puts on regular exhibitions and activities for children. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not Just For Feasting |
Whitehall - Main Building London SW1A 2HB United Kingdom +44 0 870 751 5178 http://hrp.org.uk/banquet |
Whitehall Palace was the primary residence of the royal family from 1530 until the building's destruction by fire in 1698. The Banqueting House is the last remaining section of this historic palace, and is an excellent example of the architecture of that time period. It was built to house various masques, balls, plays, and important state events. It has seen other, more nefarious moments, being the site of the execution of King Charles I. After the fire destroyed the rest of the palace, the building was used first as a church chapel and then as a museum for the state. Be sure to leave some time to explore the displays, and be sure to check out the stunning interior decoration, especially ceiling artwork by Sir Peter Paul Rubens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Erich Renner |
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Thames tour of London landmarks over lunch or dinner |
Embankment Pier Victoria Embankment London, London WC2N 6NU United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7695 1800 www.bateauxlondon.com |
Enjoy panoramic views of London city from the Thames. The boat departs daily from Embankment Pier and offers relatively inexpensive tourist cruises as well as pricier lunch cruises. Some of the sites that the Catamaran Cruises cover are Cleopatra's Needle, the Tower of London, Oxo Tower Restaurant and the Battersea Power Station. You'll also be able to spot St. Paul's and the Houses of Parliament from the all-glass 'My Symphony' cruiser. The Bateaux London is an enchanting restaurant cruise. Dining aboard the yacht in style and luxury is more than you could ask. The lunch and dinner cruises run everyday, but the costs vary. There is a set menu, and a separate children's menu is also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Peace Pagoda |
Between Albert Bridge and Chelsea Bridge South of River Thames London, London SW11 4NJ United Kingdom +44 (0)20 8871 7530 http://www.batterseapark.org/ |
Plenty happens at this royal park, opened in 1859 by Queen Victoria - there are funfairs on bank holidays, tennis courts, a boating lake, a children's zoo, playgrounds, bicycle tracks and a cafe. It's a lovely place to come for a stroll along the river on a clear, dry day. The Peace Pagoda - a gilt Buddha on the riverside built in 1985 - is a memorial to the victims of the Hiroshima bombing. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hollow hulk |
188 Kirtling Street Battersea London, London SW8 5BP United Kingdom +44 20 7501 0688 http://www.thepowerstation.co.uk/ |
The Battersea Power Station awaits a new look. A team of experts plans to transform the barren industrial area into a residency township and much more. A huge cluster of hotels, leisure amenities and other recreational activities will also be constructed alongwith. With all this vision being implemented, The Power Station is predicted to be an architectural breakthrough for London. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dynamic Museum |
36 Craven Street London, London WC2 United Kingdom +44 0207 839 2006 http://www.benjaminfranklinhou... |
Built circa 1730 and retaining most of its original features, this beautifully restored Georgian building is the only surviving residence of Benjamin Franklin. Serving as his home during the 16 years he spent in London as a mediator, it is essentially the first U.S. embassy. Designed to be a historical experience, the Benjamin Franklin house is now a "dynamic museum" and educational institution. State of the art lighting and projection technology recreate the fascinating life and discoveries of this politician, inventor, scientist, and philosopher, while the Student Science Centre offers a hands on look at Franklin's London based discoveries. Opened on Ben's 300th birthday in 2006 and just steps from Trafalgar Square, this is a wonderful variation from traditional museums and well worth the stop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Most famous clock in the world |
Parliament Square London SW1A 2NE United Kingdom http://www.whitechapelbellfoun... |
"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. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hop on, hop off |
48 Buckingham Palace Road London, London SW1W ORN United Kingdom +44 20 7233 9533 http://www.bigbus.co.uk |
You've probably seen these buses - along with London double-deckers, tour buses and more tour buses. Regardless of your usual attitude towards guided tours, these hop-on, hop-off tours are a good way to get an overview of the city, and you can make mental notes of where to go for a more thorough visit. The price you pay with The Big Bus Company is for a 24-hour ticket; during this time you can travel anywhere on the tour network, which encompasses stops over just about all of central London. Included in the price is a free walking tour and Thames River cruise, as well as numerous discounts for West End shows. Guide tapes are available in 12 languages, and the company won the London Sightseeing Tour of the Year award. Be careful when choosing the open-air rooftop, because London is notorious for fickle weather. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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London Panoramic View |
Blackfriars Bridge London United Kingdom http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B... |
Nestled between Blackfriars Railway Bridge and Waterloo Bridge over the Thames River, Blackfriars Bridge is composed of five wrought-iron arches. Completed in 1869, the bridge was dedicated to Queen Victoria and features a statue in her honor on the north side. Walking along the piers of the bridge, visitors will notice the water bird carvings by sculptor John Birnie Philip. The bridge connects the Blackfriars tube station on the north end and sites such as the Tate Modern, an art gallery on the south end. Visitors will also enjoy lovely panoramic views of the London skyline, featuring St. Paul's Cathedral. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A truly blissful experience |
60 Sloane Avenue London SW3 3DD United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7590 6146 http://www.blisslondon.co.uk/s... |
Bliss London is no stranger to accolades. Since it opened in late 2001, Bliss has won the Conde Nast Traveler's Best Urban Day Spa, Time Out Best Spa and the Sunday Times Best Spa Treatment Award for its Triple Oxygen Facial. Get away from the noise and crowd and put yourself up for a day of bliss at Bliss. From manicures at the quickbliss nail bar to the eight multi-purpose treatment rooms, Bliss has what you need. Leave it to the experts and sip on fresh fruity smoothies while you relax. Fortunately (or unfortunately), Bliss London is for women only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spectacular indeed! |
Bloomsbury London, London WC1A 2LS United Kingdom |
Once known as Southampton Square, Bloomsbury, an area in central London, is one of the earliest public squares of the city. Over the years the place has seen a number of restorations. The numerous alleyways and Georgian terraces form its core attractions. Bloomsbury is mostly a residential area and it houses prestigious institutions like the University of London, the British Museum and the University College Hospital. But explore this area on foot if you want to take in the architecture and other details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Words for the worthy |
96 Euston Road St Pancras London, London NW1 2DB United Kingdom +44 20 7412 7332 http://www.bl.uk |
The UK's national reference library is not a public library and if you want to take advantage of what's stored in its hallowed halls you'll have to obtain a reader's pass. This is granted to people doing research (primarily professional or post graduate) but if you can prove that you can't access the material elsewhere then you should be granted admission on production of identification. Fortunately, Joe Public is allowed into the three exhibition galleries for free (where the Magna Carta and Gutenberg Bible, among other items, are displayed), and there are events programmes (mainly films and lectures), and public tours on Sundays and Tuesdays, although the tours do incur a charge. The reading rooms for Oriental & India Office, Maps, Manuscripts are open from 10a-5p M, 9:30a-5p Tu-Sa and remain closed on Sundays and all English public holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 London's Top Tourist Attraction |
Great Russell Street London, GB WC1B 3DG United Kingdom +44 20 7323 8299 http://www.thebritishmuseum.ac.uk |
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. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Satellite linkup |
Maple Street London, London W1T 4BG United Kingdom |
This stalwart tower keeps London talking and is seen as both a monstrous blot on the skyline and a wonder of modern engineering. Whatever your opinion, with the majority of the city's mobile phone and internet usage controlled from this modern communications hub, formerly the Post Office Tower, it's essential for London life. The 540ft skyscraper with its huge, mushroom-shaped satellite dishes was the country's tallest building until the mundane NatWest tower eclipsed it in 1981 and can be viewed from far and wide. Unfortunately, following a bomb attack in 1971, the tower and its revolving penthouse restaurant are no longer open to the public. But its still worth taking a peek at if you're in the area - let's face it, you could hardly miss it. Oh, and by the way, its dark colour is not a result of car fumes, but is due to its tinted anti-sun glass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Majestic splendour |
Brompton Road London, London SW7 1EX United Kingdom +44 20 7808 0900 http://www.bromptonoratory.com/ |
This Roman Catholic church is a jewel of 19th century Baroque architecture. Officially called the London Oratory of St Philip Neri, it is run by the Oratorian order, which was founded by St Philip Neri. The first Catholic church to be built in London after the Reformation devastation, Brompton Oratory was not allowed to externally resemble a traditional church and had to be set back from the road. That said, it is a splendid church for both visits and worship. The side chapels with marble statues are beautiful, as are the elaborate Lady Chapel and the wooden Pieta. Look heavenwards to the fabulous domed nave. The 11a Latin High Mass on Sundays is celebrated with a full professional choir. If you join in, remember that this is a place of worship. You'll want to dress modestly, observe a respectful silence and switch off your cell phone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Her Majesty's address |
Buckingham Palace Road (Pall Mall) London SW1A 1AA United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7930 4832 http://www.royal.gov.uk/ |
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. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Toy automatons |
95 Wilton Road Unit 15 London, London SW1V 1BZ United Kingdom +44 20 8516 3134 http://www.cabaret.co.uk |
As you can guess from the name, this unique museum's amusing displays of mechanical toys and sculptures border on the bizarre but it isn't really cabaret. What started out as a quirky crafts shop in Cornwall evolved into a popular exhibition of coin-operated mechanical toys. The collection of toys grew and grew until it found refuge in Covent Garden, but exhibitions also tour countries as far afield as Japan. Described by the founders as the amalgam of art, craft and business, the shop sells handmade automata, mechanical wooden kits, books and videos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A maze of wartime activity |
King Charles Street Clive Steps London, London SW1A 2AQ United Kingdom +44 20 7930 6961 http://cwr.iwm.org.uk/ |
As the outbreak of war became ever more likely at the end of the 1930s, this maze of interlocking rooms and tunnels was constructed under civil service buildings close to the Houses of Parliament at Westminster. The purpose was to provide safe haven to government officials in the event of Nazi air raids. Thus, a sick room, dormitories, a refectory and even a shooting gallery were built. Some say that a tunnel was even dug from here to Buckingham Palace so the Royal Family could make their escape if invasion was ever to occur. Winston Churchill held vital cabinet meetings and orchestrated military operations here throughout the war years, and in the Map Room you can trace the actual position of allied forces as they triumphed on VJ Day in 1945. Immaculately preserved, the Cabinet War Rooms convey the claustrophobic and perilous atmosphere of wartime, and give a fascinating insight into the workings of the war machine. The rooms remain closed on the 24th, 25th and 26th of December. Admission prices range from £10.50 for adults, £8 for students and senior citizens and children under 16yrs are admitted free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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London's popular radio station helps all |
Parliament Square London, London United Kingdom +44 20 7484 4000 http://www.ukradio.com/ |
Capital Radio offers a comprehensive information service about everything to everyone. Whether you want to know where you should go out on a Friday night, the best place for a haircut, or the location of your country's embassy, someone will have the answer, or will transfer you to the appropriate service. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 History in the making |
24 Cheyne Row Chelsea London, London SW3 5HL United Kingdom +44 20 7352 7087 http://www.nationaltrust.org.u... |
Established in 1896 soon after the writer's death, Carlyle's House is one of the oldest literary museums in London so the original decor and furnishings as well as many personal items have been preserved. The Scottish-born historian Thomas Carlyle, who is best known for his history of the French Revolution, moved to this typical tall and thin townhouse in the early part of the Victorian era when Chelsea was still largely undeveloped and unfashionable. Carlyle wrote his monumental tomes in the attic, which he had soundproofed against the noise of his neighbours. He and his wife lived a life full of anecdote and incident and there is much here to delight both those with an interest in literary history and those with an enthusiasm for Victorian interiors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Where Londoners Play |
Carnaby Street London, UK United Kingdom http://www.carnaby.co.uk |
Home to over 30 flagship stores of some of the world's top clothing companies - including Ben Sherman, Levi, Diesel, and Vans - you're sure to find everything you can possibly dream of here. With close proximity to Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Picadilly Circus, this is definitely where trend begins. However if your feet, along with your credit card, need a break, stop in one of the many cafe's that line the street for a pint or some coffee while you watch the latest fashions stroll down the street. This section of town definitely attracts people of all sorts, so keep your eyes, and your mind, open. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Royal ritual at Buckingham Palace |
Wellington Barracks (Buckingham Palace) London, London SW1A 1AA United Kingdom +44 20 783 9137 http://www.changing-the-guard.... |
The changing of the guard is common in most European capitals, but nowhere is it more famous than in London. The new guard leaves Wellington Barracks a few minutes before the change and marches down Birdcage Walk to Buckingham Palace. The actual ceremony (which lasts around 40 minutes) takes place within the gates of the palace, so get there early to secure a good vantage spot. In addition, the St. James's Palace detachment of the Queen's guard marches to Buckingham Palace at 11:15a and back to St. James's at 12:10p. Free admission. See website for dates scheduled. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Healthy herbs |
66 Royal Hospital Road London, London SW3 4HS United Kingdom +44 20 7352 5646 http://www.chelseaphysicgarden... |
This garden, created in 1673, was initially intended for the study of plants for medicinal purposes. The CPG now operates a seed exchange system, and is geared towards preserving the diversity of plants that can be found in Britain today. Inside the garden is the largest olive tree in Britain as well as other rare plants. You'll have to be a Friend to visit throughout the year, but non-members can enjoy the garden from April to October. You can also purchase plants in the shop or have a cup of herbal tea in their café, and the garden can be hired for special occasions. Hours below are from April thru October. During the Chelsea Flower Show, opening times are midday-5pm, Monday-Friday. Admission: adults £6.5; children £3.5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rick Phillips |
 Photo: Andrew Caddock |
 Photo: Richard White |
 Photo: Alan Connor |
 Photo: Valerie Craig |
 Photo: Elsa Katana |
 Photo: stephen benson |
 Photo: Alexis Hutcheson |
 Photo: Lynden Clarke |
 Photo: Chris Ricci |
 Photo: annie_everywhere |
 Photo: Anja Jessen |
 Photo: Wenzie Ng |
 Photo: S. Scharf |
 Photo: Ailie |
 Photo: Mirna Lerotic |
 Photo: Matthew Brown |
 Photo: tom-mason.co.uk |
 Photo: Johanna Neurath |
 Photo: Michael T Holland |
 Photo: unicorn123 |
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Chinese Enclave |
Shaftesbury Avenue London, UK United Kingdom http://www.portcities.org.uk/l... |
Located in the Limehouse region of London around Gerrard Street, this is the primary section of town to which residents of Hong Kong immigrated after World War II. Here you're likely to find some of the best Chinese cuisine the city has to offer, along with some pretty cheap souvenirs. At night, this place comes alive with stores, supermarkets, and shops all throwing their wares out on the street for curious passer-bys to gaze at. Despite the stories of Opium dens and slum housing, London's Chinatown has emerged as one of the more happening parts of the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Glimpse Into Sir Winston Churchill's Life |
King Charles Street King Charles St London, London SW1A 2AQ United Kingdom +44 20 7930 6961 http://cwr.iwm.org.uk |
Winston Churchill (1874-1965), the greatest British statesman of the 20th century and World War II Prime Minister, is presented in this unique and historical collection: the Churchill Museum. Within the Cabinet War Rooms, the Museum captures the public and private life and achievements of the British leader and icon. Divided into five chapters, take a glimpse at the young Winston Churchill and his wilderness years along with his life as a politician, statesman, war leader and Cold War statesman. The museum has over 150 original objects including Churchill's baby rattle and his trench periscope used on the Western Front. There are also numerous documents, photographs and audiovisual and interactive displays. Winston Churchill was both historian and a significant part of history himself. For anyone interested in the history of the 20th century, this exhibit is a must. Call or check website for admission prices and group rates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Henry Liao |
 Photo: Michael Gilby |
 Photo: John Griffiths |
 Photo: summerseal |
 Photo: Davide Piacenza |
 Photo: Betty D Nguyen |
 Photo: Mike Glasspool |
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Thames tour from Westminster to Greenwich |
Westminster Pier London, London SW1A 2JR United Kingdom +44 20 7740 0400 http://www.citycruises.com |
You won't want to forget your camera when you head off on one of these cruises. A fleet of 15 boats provides sightseeing trips that run daily between London's four main destination piers, Westminster, Waterloo, Tower, and Greenwich. Some of the other things you'll catch a glimpse of as you make your way down the Thames are the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul's, Tower Bridge and the Millennium Dome. There is also the London Showboat, which makes for a memorable night on the water with dancing, dinner, and cabaret. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kristina again! |
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Stuff to do, things to see in the city |
St Paul's Churchyard (opposite St. Paul's Cathedral) London, London EC4M 8BX United Kingdom +44 20 7332 1456 http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk... |
Make the City Information Centre your first stop when visiting The City/Square Mile area, financial centre of London and home to St. Paul's Cathedral. Not only is it well stocked with maps and information on landmarks, historical walks and festivals, the centre is bang opposite the cathedral with stunning views across the Millennium Bridge to the Tate Modern. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Obelisk on the Thames |
Opposite Victoria Embankment Gardens London, London SW1 United Kingdom http://www.akhet.co.uk/cleo.htm |
This granite obelisk was first erected in Egypt around 1500BC by Pharaoh Thotmes III. Although Cleopatra had nothing to do with the obelisk, it was named after the famous queen when it was moved to Alexandria in 12BC. In 1819, it was given as a gift to the British people in recognition of Nelson's victory over the French fleet. It was later erected on the Victoria Embankment in 1878. Magnificent bronze lions guard Cleopatra's Needle. The pink-granite monolith sits on a pedestal, within which are two earthenware containers enclosing objects which are bizarre, to say the least. Some of those objects are: bibles in various languages; a box of hairpins; a box of cigars; a hydraulic jack; copies of an engineering magazine and portraits of 12 of the most beautiful Englishwomen. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen Zopf |
 Photo: Frankie Roberto |
 Photo: William Helsen |
 Photo: Chris Sansenbach |
 Photo: citadelmonkey |
 Photo: Adam Lammiman |
 Photo: Barry Hensey |
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