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ST. JAMES'S. Buckingham Palace is a sightseeing must. Queen Victoria moved into the vast mansion in 1837; since then, generations of royals have made the palace their home. Although wandering the grounds and taking photos of the elaborate exterior are always popular, the interior (some of which is open only during late July to September) is a treasure trove of art, furniture, sculpture and decorative goods. Walk around the corner to the Royal Mews to see the queen's coaches and horses. Admission is by timed ticket, available by phoning 20-7766-7300 or e-mailing bookinginfo@royalcollection.org.uk. TUBE: Victoria or Green Park or St. James's Park
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Greenwich
south bank of the Thames, 4 miles east of central London, Greenwich, UK - England SE10 · 87-0608-2000
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GREENWICH. About four miles from downtown London, Greenwich is ideal for a day trip. Its attractions are legion and include the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, Queen's House, Millennium Dome, wonderful Greenwich Park, and the clipper Cutty Sark. In addition to straddling two time zones at the prime meridian (where Greenwich Mean Time is established), visitors enjoy plenty of charming pubs, restaurants and shops. There's also a great market that'll keep you browsing for quite a while. For the best experience, travel to Greenwich on one of the Thames cruise boats. TUBE: Trains run to Greenwich from the Charing Cross, Waterloo, or London Bridge tube stations.
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WESTMINSTER. The impressive, Gothic-styled Houses of Parliament occupy the original site of the Palace of Westminster. Combined with their famous clock tower (commonly known as Big Ben), they're synonymous with London and a necessary stop. Although the building's exteriors are spectacular, it's even more interesting to head inside and see the Houses in action from the Visitor's Gallery – particularly if you go when the Prime Minister is subjected to Question Time, when disorder is common. Overseas visitors may tour Paliament only during Summer Opening in August and September, but may attend debates during the session. TUBE: Westminster
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Hyde Park
Bayswater Rd, and Park Ln, London, UK - England W2 · 20-7298-2100
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PADDINGTON. Flush against Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park is probably London's most familiar and most popular park. It's more than a mile square and includes Serpentine Lake, Marble Arch, the Diana Memorial Fountain and the well-known (and still-used) Speaker's Corner. The British take pride in freedom of expression, and this park is where orators show up to speak their minds, usually to crowds of tourists. Popular recreational activities in Hyde Park include rollerblading, football (soccer), and lawn bowling. A must-see for London visitors. TUBE: Hyde Park Corner or Marble Arch
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London Eye
Westminster Bridge Rd, London, UK - England SE1 7PB · 87-0500-0600
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SOUTH BANK. London offers many places to catch great panoramas of the skyline and the Thames, but this attraction is one of the best. Run by British Airways, the Eye opened to great acclaim at the start of the new millennium; well-managed ticketing ensures that the wait is never more than a half-hour, despite the Eye's overwhelming popularity. The 30-minute guided "flight" reaches a peak of 450 feet (it's the tallest observation wheel in the world) and offers 360° views. During the day, guides point out all the sights within a 25-mile radius, giving folks a good introduction to the city's layout. At night, when London is lit up, the view is even more amazing. A must-see. If you purchase a Fast Track ticket in advance (on-line or via phone), you can skip the usually lengthy queues. TUBE: Waterloo
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RICHMOND. Spread across 300 acres, these gorgeous gardens are a year-round wonderland of sights, scents, and beauty. Horticultural specimens from around the world can be found either on the grounds or in a number of climate-controlled structures. You'll also find lakes, pathways, and other eye-catching landscape features. Tropical to arctic-adapted plants mesmerize visitors, who get a broad overview of the entire complex at the visitors center. A gift shop is available as well. TUBE: District line, Richmond train
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St. Paul's Cathedral
St. Paul's Churchyard, Ludgate Hill, London, UK - England EC4M 8AD · 20-7236-4128
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CITY. Sir Christopher Wren's architectural masterpiece should be at the top of any sightseeing list. The sprawling cathedral is notable for its artistry and design, but it also offers a fascinating glimpse of England's religious history. Plus, it affords one of the best views of the Thames and the London skyline from its dome – although you must tackle 530 narrow steps to get there. The Whispering Gallery, the crypt, the treasury and the chapels surrounding the main transepts are fascinating as well. TUBE: St. Paul's
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Tate Modern
25 Sumner St, Bankside, London, UK - England SE1 9TG · 20-7887-8888
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SOUTHWARK. After the Tate Modern opened its doors to rave reviews, it became London's latest not-to-be-missed museum. Boasting a spectacular selection of modern art �; both well-known and undiscovered �; the Tate divides its collection into Landscape/Matter/Environment, Still Life/Object, and Nude/Action/Body. Special talks and free guided tours are available, and the stunningly renovated facility is a work of modern art in itself. You shouldn't �; and can't �; miss displays in the massive Turbine Room, which have included three enormous towers by Louise Bourgeois. TUBE: Southwark
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CITY. The Tower of London draws tourists who are taking a growing interest in some of the more lurid, murderous aspects of London's history. This vast, imposing brick building has been the site of many bloody events, including the murder of future kings, incarceration of historical figures, and political beheadings. Kids love the stories told by Beefeater guides, and adults relish the Crown Jewels, although folks have to view them quickly, because visitors are hurried by to accommodate everyone. One of London's most interesting attractions, and also one of its most popular – go early. TUBE: Tower Hill
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KENSINGTON. The "V&A South Kensington" occupies a gorgeous facility near Kensington Gardens and displays an extensive collection of decorative arts. In fact, it boasts more than 4 million objects in 146 galleries. Highlighting cultures from around the world, exhibits are organized by country, material and time period. Indian art is well-represented and awe-inspiring. Past exhibits have included a showcase of Art Nouveau sculptures and paintings from around the world. TUBE: South Kensington
You want only quality attractions and activities to occupy your leisure hours. To that end, we've researched a diverse list of options, ruled out the wastes of time, and delivered only the 10Best. We provide detailed information about historical sites, theme parks, sporting events, and city sights that you won't want to miss. Peruse our lists, see what grabs your fancy, and then head out for some personal time!
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