If you happen to be going to London for the Summer Olympics and are looking for flights to London, there are still some flights available, but the seats are going fast. While you are in London, there are many exciting attractions that you should visit to make your trip complete. London is rich in history and culture, offering many architectural marvels as well as museums and scenic tours. While you are visiting the UK, here are seven attractions you should see in the city of London.
1.) Royal Academy of Arts
If you enjoy modern art, visit one of the most popular art centers in London when you step into the Royal Academy of Arts. This privately funded museum was built in 1768 by King George III to showcase the prominent artists of the day. It has continued as a forum to display the works of English artists as well as others.
2.) National Gallery
The National Gallery is the place to go if you want to see works from great artists like Van Gogh, Raphael, Rembrandt, Degas and more. The gallery houses paintings and artwork that date back to the 13th Century, providing a great look into the history of London and the UK.
3.) Hyde Park
As the largest public park in the city of London, Hyde Park covers over 350 acres with nearby Kensington Gardens covering another 270 acres. The park was created in 1637 and was the site of the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. The park also features the Diana, Princess of Wales memorial.
4.) Tower of London
Built by William the Conqueror in 1088, the tower was built as a defense for the city. Over the years it has served as not only a defensive structure, but also a prison, museum, a palace and more. The Tower of London currently houses many of London’s historic artifacts including the crown jewels.
5.) Spencer House
Built in 1756 for the first Earl Spencer, the Spencer House is one of London’s historic structures. The Spencer House is just a few minutes from Buckingham Palace and is the only private palace in the city from the 18th century that still exists intact. The grounds also include a restored 18th century garden that is open to the public.
6.) Big Ben
As one of London’s most well known landmarks, Big Ben was built in 1859 after the original houses of Parliament were destroyed in a fire. The new Parliament building including the tower of Big Ben, when it was suggested that the new structure include a central clock for the town.
7.) Buckingham Palace
As the official residence of the British monarchy, Buckingham Palace is the most well known landmark in England. Built in 1837, the palace is a working building, much like the White House is to the United States. Buckingham Palace has been the scene of many historic events and celebrations with a total of 775 individual rooms. The palace also houses many amazing pieces of art and furnishings.