london sightseeing

Big Ben is an awesome photo opportunity. It's one of the landmarks in London that you just need to get a photo next to. Whether you are holding it, standing next to it or pretending to lean on it it is like all major city attractions similar including The Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The good thing if you are visiting Big Ben is that is, of course, attached to the end of Parliament House and Buildings so there is a lot more to see in the area other than just Big Ben. A great sightseeing spot and highly recommended...nicer on a sunny day of course.

The london eye is a great place to go for the view. It only takes about 20-30 minutes to go around and it is not that cheap but worth it if you have the money. If you are on a budget I don't think it is really worth it and you are better off climbing the stairs to the dome at St Pauls Cathedral, the view up there is great.

I recently heard that Madame Tussauds was rated as one of the most disappointing tourist experiences in London. I have not been because of this survey on Madame Tussauds and would welcome comments from anyone who has?

Madame Tussauds is a Wax works. This is where you go to have your photo taken with celebrities and stars that you would not normally get close to. They look quite real to me. Who was Madame Tussaud anyway?

http://www.madametussauds.com/London/

Madame Tussauds Opening times

If you are shopping on Oxford St it can get a little overwhelming. All the dodging people, carrying bags, avoiding getting run over by buses. If you do find yourself in need of a break from shopping there is a Borders Bookstore and Cafe on Oxford Street east of the Oxford Circus tube station. It is across the road from Top Shop and Urban Outfitters and down a bit. On the top floor there is a Starbucks which should provide you with some rest from all your shopping.

There is also a McDonalds a bit further down should you want to eat some less healthy but still have a rest.

Camden Market is Londons most popular open air market place and worth a visit if you are in London long enough. Camden is well known for it's markets, music, pubs, theatres and restaurants so there is something for everyone.

It is on the weekend that things come to life and you will notice a considerable jump in numbers of people there. So if you are traveling to London and can go during the week it is less crowed but there might not be as many stalls and market places open.

If you are travelling to London and end up in Trafalgar Square if you fancy a slightly longer walk then just down the road is Somerset House which is worth a wander to, even if all you do is look at the main Square. In Winter they have open air ice skating set up so that is a definite if you have time and are in London in Winter. I think it costs between £15-£25 but is very romantic and alot of fun.

Somerset House is on the Thames and there is a terrace on the back side which over looks the Thames. During the day you can get food from the Cafe there.

I lived in London for 4 years before I went to see the 'Changing of the Guard' or just 'Changing the Guard' at Buckingham Palace. And I am surprised I didn't go earlier. All the ceremony put me off and I thought it was for tourists. But I can recommend it.

Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace is scheduled to take place at 11.30am on the following dates: However we recommend you arrive by 11.15am.

January Confirmed Schedule
2nd,4th,6th,8th,10th,12th,14th,16th,18th,20th,22nd,24th,26th,28th,30th

February Provisional Schedule