Have a Great Holiday Closer to Home
Large numbers of Brits will be planning a break this summer but with so many destinations to choose from, it is often easy to overlook something a little closer to home. By staying in London hotels by HotelClub, you can be afforded access to one of the finest cities in the world for both locals and foreign tourists alike.
The UK capital has often been described as a ‘world in one city’ due to its cultural mix; however, in addition to this wonderful degree of cultural diversity, the city still retains its quintessentially British friendly ambience.
London is the largest urban zone in the EU and has a history that goes back thousands of years. It is a culturally vibrant city and one that attracts more visitors than just about any other in the world. One thing is guaranteed should you choose to visit London; you will not be short of things to do.
So, what is London’s direct appeal to tourists? Well, its attractions and landmarks are well documented; the city boasts the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament at Westminster and Tower Bridge, but its charm also lies in more understated places. The locals rarely agree on the best places to visit and with so much to see and do, it could be a trip to the theatre or the museum of London that takes your fancy.
The museum of London is the world’s largest urban history museum with over 1.1 million objects. City breakers can admire the elegant prehistoric collections or take in one of the many special exhibitions and displays, which epitomises the city’s sightseeing allure.
If history is your thing then you will almost certainly enjoy a trip to the Tower of London. Originally built by the Normans following their invasion of England in 1066, the Tower has played a central role in English history and has served as a palace, prison, armoury, treasury, the home of the Royal Mint, and location of the Crown Jewels.
Something that is well worth watching while you are at the Tower is the Ceremony of the Keys. This short ritual has been taking place every night since the 14th century. It involves the Chief Yeoman Warder making his way, along with a foot guard, to the gates of the Tower, whereupon he identifies himself to the sentry. If you would like to watch this historic event you will have to book tickets (which can now be done online) as spaces are limited.
Situated next to the Tower, you will find one of London’s less documented tourist attractions, All Hallows. This is the oldest church in the city, parts of the building date from as early as 675 AD. Indeed, the discovery of a Roman pavement proved that there has been some form of city life taking place on the site for over 2,000 years.
Another historic attraction not to be missed is a visit to The Golden Hinde, which is berthed at St Mary Overie Dock. This ship is an exact replica of the one that Sir Francis Drake sailed around the world on during the 16th century.
This is an especially good activity for those travelling with children as the boat is crewed by actors dressed in period costume. This really brings Tudor history to life, as it gives you a brilliant impression of what life was really like for the men who circumnavigated the globe in what is effectively a boat not that much bigger than one of London’s famous red double-decker buses.
If, however, modern and contemporary is more your sort of thing, a trip to the London Eye is one that many tourists will never forget. It has become one of the most spectacular attractions in the world, drawing people from far and wide, and its burgeoning popularity has seen it become the face of modern London.
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