No trip to London is complete without taking in a plethora of the sites that the city is famous for. Whether you are craving an outdoorsy trip to London or searching for indoor landmarks, there is something for everyone in this historic and vibrant location.
In this article, we’ll share what sightseeing of notable landmarks you need to have on your bucket list so that the perfect trip can be planned. These landmarks are perfect to see at any time of the year meaning these tips are ideal whether you are arranging a trip to London in Autumn or during the warmer months.
We will also share advice on how you can book the best accommodation based on which landmarks you want to see and how you plan on getting around the city!
What Are the Best Historical Landmarks to Visit in London?
London is a city steeped in history, which stretches all the way back to 43 A.D. Although the city is home to an array of modern architecture and attractions, these contemporary spots have been cleverly built around the historic sites that made London one of the most unique locations in the world. If you want to get a sense of what made London and the U.K. what they are today, taking in some of the most famous historic landmarks is essential. These top places to plan into your itinerary are as follows:
- Houses of Parliament – Home to the British Government, the House of Parliament is just a short walk from Waterloo station. The area is also home to Big Ben and close to the London Eye meaning all of the attractions on the South Bank can also be explored.
- Westminster Abbey – As a World Heritage Site, Westminster Abbey is a must-visit if you are planning a trip to London. The impressive building has been home to many notable events in British history concerning royalty and notable figures for more than 1000 years. Most recently, the Abbey had a global lens cast over it for the Queen’s funeral and the Coronation of King Charles.
- Buckingham Palace – Although not the oldest London landmark, Buckingham Palace is a notable event in modern day history which we think every visitor should attend. Built in 1705, the grand building has been a place of residence for notable figures including royalty, dukes and duchesses. For a true taste of London, plan your visit around the changing of guards.
- Tower of London – This is another must-visit spot which instantly transports tourists back to mediaeval times. From the famous ‘London Wall’, which is one of the oldest defensive structures still standing in the U.K., to the dazzling crown jewels, there is plenty to see in this famous landmark.
- Hampton Court Palace – Standing proudly next to the river Thames, Hampton Court Palace offers spots to explore inside the stunning building plus in the surrounding gardens. The Palace is Grade 1 listed and has many links to Tudor times.
What Are the Most Must-See Modern London Landmarks
London is one of the main cities in the UK, and money is spent on the development of infrastructure each year. This means when visiting the city, it’s not just historical landmarks that we think should be on tourists’ bucket lists but also some of the modern-day spots which include the following:
- The Gherkin – Built in 2001, The Gherkin has become another notable London landmark in recent years thanks to its inclusion in the opening credits of popular TV shows like The Apprentice and unique design which takes inspiration from Venus’s flower basket. Inside you can find restaurants, viewing spaces, private offices and exclusive members clubs. Other similar spots include The Shard, LeadenHall Building and The Scalpel.
- Tate Modern – If you love both art and architecture, a visit to this notable art museum is essential. The Tate is famous for being located in an old power station and being home to a blend of both world-known artists and modern day designers. It’s also located on the bank of the Thames close to other must-visit landmarks including The Globe Theatre and the Millennium Bridge.
- Canary Wharf – Home to some of the biggest companies in the UK, Canary Wharf is a must-visit as it represents modern London perfectly. From the economic One Canada Square building to the expensive yachts parked in the harbour, there is always plenty to experience.
- O2 Arena – The O2 arena is one of the most economic additions to the birds-eye view of London in recent years having been built to mark the turn of the millennium. What was once a cultural tourist attraction to celebrate the year 2000 is now home to a selection of bars, restaurants, shops and arenas for viewing shows. You can even walk on the roof of the tent-like structure if you are seeking some thrill-seeking excitement during your visit to the city!
- The Shard – Soaring above the city, The Shard is one of the tallest structures in London and a hallmark of modern architecture. Visitors to its observation deck will experience breathtaking views of the city and its historic landmarks that are unlike any other.
- Horizon 22 & Sky Garden – Located within the new generation of London skyscrapers, Horizon 22 offers some of the best panoramic views in the city, while Sky Garden combines beautiful green spaces with an unrivalled cityscape. These modern landmarks allow visitors to take in London’s incredible skyline from unique perspectives.
How Can a Trip to London Be Planned So That the Must-See Landmarks Are All Close By?
Once you have created a bucket list of must-visit spots in London, it’s important to consider the best area to stay during your visit. Choosing the perfect area and a stunning hotel will enhance your trip by making it easier to navigate around London. You can select the best stay for your travel plans by considering the below factors.
Book Suitable Accommodation
Choosing the best stay is important for a few reasons. Not only does location mean you can easily get to your chosen spots and make the most of every minute that you have in the city, but having a comfortable place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing is essential.
Our hotels are perfectly located around the city to ensure any visit to notable London landmarks can be planned. This includes our Liverpool Street stay, Great St Helen, Farringdon-based Hatton Garden, Tottenham Court road location Bloomsbury Palace Hotel plus the Mabledon Court Hotel which is located near London Kings Cross station. We also have two hotels located in the stunning area of Bloomsbury which are the Cavendish Hotel and Arran House Hotel.
Secure Tickets in Advance
Another top tip is to secure tickets in advance. This will eliminate the need to spend time in costly queues, can save you money plus helps you to plan a brilliant itinerary. Whether you choose to book visits to individual locations or find a London walking tour that can take you past multiple sights, there is an option for anyone.
Plan the Best Transport Options
Another important consideration is how to get around London easily. Knowing what transport options are available to get between landmarks is essential as it ensures you are not wasting time making incorrect travel movements. This also helps you to plot the order in which you see landmarks as the last thing you want is to leave a location only to realise you have missed out on a site you really wanted to see! If you are unsure of how best to plan your transport and you are staying in one of our hotels, our friendly team is available to offer some expert advice.
Why Choose The Crown Group of Hotels For Trips to London?
London is full of so many more landmarks that we haven’t included in this article which is why a visit to the city is perfect for anyone. Whether you want to take in some history or explore modern architecture, our hotels are the perfect place to call home whilst in the city.
Not only do we have a selection of special offers which are less than the average cost of a hotel in London, but we also have a choice of rooms to suit different preferences.
If you are planning a visit to London, click here to book now or if you have any other questions, feel free to contact our team.
