Explore Essentials: The Definitive Guide to London’s Top Attractions

“London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, offers a rich blend of modern arts and culture with ancient historic sites. From the iconic ‘Big Ben’ clock tower to the picturesque London Eye observation wheel, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Discover the best London attractions and plan your next break in the city.

### Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Queen of England and one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. During the summer months, you can take a public tour of the palace to see its lavishly furnished staterooms, the Royal Collection’s treasures, paintings by masters like Rembrandt and Rubens and fine English and French furniture.

### The Coca-Cola London Eye

The Coca-Cola London Eye is located in the heart of the capital and rotates over the River Thames, opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The towering, cantilevered observation wheel is not only an iconic landmark on the city’s skyline, but it also offers panoramic views of London and its famous landmarks.

### SEA LIFE London Aquarium

The SEA LIFE London Aquarium holds one of Europe’s largest collections of exotic marine life. One of 28 SEA LIFE attractions on the continent, the aquarium focuses on immersive and interactive journeys through an underwater environment, complete with a stunning glass tunnel, touch pools and discovery zones. You’ll see stingrays, seahorses, octopus, zebra sharks and other vibrant marine creatures throughout the displays.

### The Shard

The Shard in London Bridge is nearly twice as high as any of the city’s other buildings, offering panoramic views of the skyline from various viewing platforms. The indoor observation decks are found on levels 68 and 69, but level 72 is an open-air platform with spectacular, unobstructed views.

### London Dungeon

London’s dark past is on full display in the London Dungeon. The interactive experience uses live actors, thrilling rides and realistic special effects to showcase London’s storied history. A highlight is the 5D laser ride, Vengeance, that recreates a thrilling Victorian séance that goes awry.

### ZSL London Zoo

The ZSL London Zoo is a working conservation zoo that has over 750 species of global animals in naturalistic habitats. You’ll see Asiatic lions in the Land of the Lions exhibit, adorable penguins at Penguin Beach, gorgeous tigers in Tiger Territory and intimidating apes in Gorilla Kingdom. Other walkthrough exhibits include In with the Lemurs, Meet the Monkeys and a walkthrough spider experience.

### Madame Tussauds London

Madame Tussauds London is a unique museum with 14 interactive areas of wax statues of famous people. Visitors can walk down the red carpet next to Hollywood’s A-list stars, explore the sports zone with heroes like David Beckham and Usain Bolt or step onto the stage with music icons through the ages. One can also take a picture with Her Majesty the Queen and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and after your tour, take a behind-the-scenes ride to see how the sculptures are created.

### Tower of London

The Tower of London has a dark history with torture and death, but it’s also home to the history of the royal palace, an armoury and a historic fortress. You could marvel at the priceless Crown Jewels, hear the bloody tales of the Beefeater, stand in famous execution rooms and chambers and learn about the tower’s famous ravens. You can also take in the Royal Beasts tour, which tells you about the wild animals that once lived in the tower when it was the first London Zoo.

### British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s most famous attractions. It exhibits works spanning from prehistoric times to the modern day, such the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures and mummies from ancient Egypt. The museum also has special exhibitions, displays and themed events to highlight new or significant collections and expand public knowledge.

### National Gallery

Standing in Trafalgar Square, London’s National Gallery is an expansive art gallery with western European paintings spanning from the 13th to the 19th centuries. You’ll find works from da Vinci, Botticelli, Van Gogh, Renoir, Titian, Stubbs and Constable, as well as rotating exhibitions that highlight different artists or time periods of historical or cultural significance.

### Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is a fascinating museum filled with natural wonders. You can see a vast collection of rare and unique animals, such as a 40-million-year-old spider and a life-sized blue whale, and other ancient treasures. You can also attend lates and special exhibitions, such as silent discos, dinosaur sleepovers, holiday programmes and awards ceremonies.

From the treasures of the kingdom to fascinating natural wonders, London has attractions to suit every taste and interest. Check out these London hotel options and start preparing for your next holiday in the capital.”