{"id":48779,"date":"2020-09-24T13:58:35","date_gmt":"2020-09-24T11:58:35","guid":{"rendered":"\/blog\/?p=48779"},"modified":"2024-01-29T16:12:56","modified_gmt":"2024-01-29T15:12:56","slug":"landmarks-in-london","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/landmarks-in-london\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 15 Landmarks in London","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\u2013<\/em>\u00a0This post was written by\u00a0Mick Murray<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0\u2013<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A city is often defined by its most iconic landmarks \u2013 and London has plenty of those. From locations that helped shape the course of history to modern architectural triumphs, here are some unmissable places to admire on your next trip to the Big Smoke.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Historic London Landmarks (1-8)<\/a>
1. The Tower of London<\/a><\/li>
2. Buckingham Palace<\/a><\/li>
3. Palace of Westminster<\/a><\/li>
4. Westminster Abbey<\/a><\/li>
5. Big Ben<\/a><\/li>
6. St Paul\u2019s Cathedral<\/a><\/li>
7. Shakespeare’s Globe<\/a><\/li>
8. Trafalgar Square<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
Natural Landmarks in London (9-10)<\/a>
9. The Thames<\/a><\/li>
10. Hyde Park<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
Modern London Landmarks (11-15)<\/a>
11. The London Eye<\/a><\/li>
12. The Shard<\/a><\/li>
13. Tower Bridge<\/a><\/li>
14. Wembley Stadium<\/a><\/li>
15. 30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n
<\/span>Historic London Landmarks<\/strong> (1-8)<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/span>1. The Tower of London<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n $\"The$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s the story?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Tower of London<\/a> is one of those iconic landmarks that has been not just in the background, but at the forefront of some of England\u2019s most historic events over the last 1,000 years. Originally built in 1078 by William the Conqueror as part of the Norman Conquest of England, it has served as a royal residence, a strategic defensive fortress, a treasury, and the nation’s most infamous prison.

The Tower of London is where Queen Elizabeth I witnessed her darkest days, imprisoned by her arch-rival prior to becoming one of history\u2019s most famous monarchs. It\u2019s where the two young princes, the only figures standing in the way of Richard III becoming king, mysteriously disappeared. Guy Fawkes was tortured here, until he confessed to the Gunpowder Plot. In other words, it\u2019s where some of English history’s most defining moments took place for centuries upon centuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s there to do?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
These days, the tower features a distinct lack of imprisonment and torture \u2013 good news for visitors. But some age-old traditions have survived. The legendary Yeoman Warders are still a hugely popular sight, and the tower\u2019s famous ravens travel freely around the grounds (and skies), responding only to the man with the greatest job title in the world: The Ravenmaster. The main attraction for most visitors, however, would be the Crown Jewels; the most powerful symbols of the British monarchy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>2. Buckingham Palace<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n $\"Buckingham$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s the story?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Buckingham Palace<\/a> is a true London icon, and one of the most famous buildings in the world. Inextricably linked to the royal family, it\u2019s been the official London-based residence of the British monarch since 1837. The palace\u2019s imposing and ornate gates keep out millions of visitors every year, all hoping to get a glimpse into royal life. Foreign dignitaries are often received here by the royal family, and knighthood ceremonies have taken place in the palace\u2019s ballroom for almost two centuries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the most impressive visual icons that gives Buckingham Palace its identity as one of the top London landmarks is the Victoria Memorial, located directly outside of the palace\u2019s gates. This giant marble and bronze sculpture, designed to commemorate the first royal who took Buckingham Palace as her official residence, is one of the most visually impressive in all of London.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s there to do?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visitors to Buckingham Palace can admire the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, the colourful spectacle in which the red-and-black Queen’s Guard change their positions. Seeing these legendary guards in action is a tourist attraction in itself, even while they\u2019re remaining completely (e)motionless on duty. And while you might not be able to get a private audience with your favourite member of the royal family, it\u2019s possible to visit the State Rooms, which feature some of the finest works of art in the royal collection. You can also visit the Royal Mews, which unfortunately isn\u2019t a kitten sanctuary (found that out the hard way), but does contain some beautiful carriages \u2013 including the elaborate Gold State Coach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>3. Palace of Westminster<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
$\"The$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s the story?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Palace of Westminster is the UK\u2019s political hub, home to the House of Commons as well as the House of Lords. It\u2019s often referred to as the Houses of Parliament for this reason, but its official name was derived from the nearby Westminster Abbey (more on that one later). Royal palaces have been constructed on this site since the 11th century, and Westminster served as the main residence of British kings until 1512.

The Gothic Revival style of its architecture has become part of the international idea of what London looks like, and the Elizabeth Tower \u2013 part of the palace \u2013 can be considered a London landmark in and of itself. You might know it by its popular name, Big Ben. Aside from being visually stunning, Westminster Palace is a must-see for history buffs. Its importance to British politics throughout the centuries cannot be overstated; it\u2019s the site where Sir Walter Raleigh was executed, where the infamous Gunpowder Plot failed, and where major political decisions have been made since the reign of Canut the Great (1016-1035).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s there to do?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guided tours of the palace take place throughout the year, and are available for both overseas and local visitors. UK residents can apply to view sessions at the House of Commons for free (through their local MP), while foreign guests can queue for admission any time the House is in session. Besides touring the historic facilities, one of the most popular things to do is simply to admire the magnificent palace from various angles!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>4. Westminster Abbey<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n $\"Westminster$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s the story?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Indisputably one of the top landmarks in London, the famous Westminster Abbey<\/a> has history dating back as far as 960-970 AD. Known for its spectacular Gothic architecture (similar to the adjacent Westminster Palace), this is the resting place for some of the most famous and influential figures of the last ten centuries. Most of England\u2019s monarchs, including Elizabeth I, are entombed here. It\u2019s the closest you can get, in the most literal sense of the word, to these iconic figures who shaped the course of world history.

It\u2019s not just monarchs, though. Literary figures like Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, Alfred Tennyson, and Jane Austen are all either buried or commemorated here. On top of the stunning architecture of the abbey itself, its link to British history makes it one of the top London landmarks for anyone interested in either fascinating historical figures or beautiful buildings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s there to do?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s a variety of reasons to visit this UNESCO-listed abbey. Many people come to pay homage to their favourite poet, explorer, artist, while others just want to admire one of London\u2019s most visually impressive architectural landmarks. It\u2019s also a popular place of pilgrimage for royal family aficionados from around the world, having been used as the location for many royal weddings, including those of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince William.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>5. Big Ben<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n $\"Big$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s the story?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ask anyone to draw you a picture of London, and it\u2019s only a matter of time before you start seeing the outline of this iconic clock tower. This neo-Gothic marvel is not just one of the most recognisable London landmarks, but serves as a prominent symbol for the UK in general. In 2008<\/a>, it was actually voted as the UK\u2019s favourite landmark, defeating a sorely disappointed Stonehenge.

Designed by famous architect Augustus Pugin and completed in 1859, the London skyline wouldn\u2019t be the same without this four-faced behemoth. While technically it\u2019s part of the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben by itself deserves a mention for its impact on the global cultural consciousness as well as its imposing physical presence. Whether it\u2019s covered in scaffolding or not, it\u2019s a London must-see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s there to do?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Right now, not a lot \u2013 the tower is undergoing renovation, which is projected to take place until 2021. However, there\u2019s plenty to see and do in the Westminster area. Big Ben is within comfortable walking distance of other London landmarks like Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, 10 Downing Street, St. James\u2019s Park, Buckingham Palace, and plenty more. There\u2019s also a Tesco Express right across the street if you\u2019re feeling like sampling some fine British cuisine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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