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Must do recommendations in London

If you’re visiting London for the first time, you’ll want to tick off as many of the city’s famous sites as possible. From historic landmarks like the Tower of London and Big Ben to modern monuments like the London Eye and The Shard, there’s so much to discover in this extraordinary city. Start your explorations with some of our favourite must-see sites, instantly recognisable from numerous films and TV shows.

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Buckingham Palace

For most visitors to London, the opportunity to rub shoulders with royalty is the stuff of dreams. The next best thing would be to visit Buckingham Palace, and see the colourful Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Royal residences in London

Tower of London

Home to the sparkling sceptre and crown, the Tower of London is an unmissable attraction for history buffs. Pass through the imposing gates and into another world, where uniformed Beefeaters tell tales of times gone by, of Queens held captive and great British battles. Explore the eerie dungeons and grand exhibits and be enchanted by the priceless Crown Jewels. Yes, they’re real and no, you can’t touch.

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The London Eye

Significantly larger and miles more impressive than your average Ferris wheel, The London Eye is a landmark of modern London. Take a spin on the giant 135-metre-tall wheel and enjoy ever-changing views of capital’s most iconic buildings as you rise up over the city in a glass bubble. 

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Westminster

The political heart of London, Westminster is the city’s undisputed powerhouse. Take a peek inside the Houses of Parliament during a guided tour; discover the graves of Kings and Queens at the monumental Westminster Abbey; wave to the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street; or take an obligatory ‘selfie’ at the iconic Big Ben clock tower.

View from The Shard

Standing proud at an impressive 310 metres high, The Shard looms large over the city. Every building pales in comparison to this imposing structure, designed to resemble a shard of glass. The landmark features numerous bars and restaurants for sky-high dining, as well as London’s highest viewing platform, View from the Shard.

London skyscraper restaurants

West End

When the sun goes down, the theatres of the West End light up. London’s celebrated theatre district is the place to go for an exciting evening of family entertainment or a date night with a difference. Whether you’re tempted by an all-singing-all-dancing musical, a sensational drama or some stand up comedy, there’s always something going on.

London theatre: back to the classics

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Image credits:

Royal Parade in London © iStock

Buckingham Palace © The Royal Collection Trust

Tower of London © iStock

The London Eye © iStock: ZoltanGabor

Big Ben © iStock:lakovKalinin

The Shard © iStock: ivanastar

Theatre sign © iStock: LanceB