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Albert Memorial
Kensington Gore, Kensington Gardens, London, UK - England SW7 · 20-7298-2100
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KENSINGTON. In 1851, Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, coordinated a Great Exhibition to highlight worldly innovation. Its success led him to propose a permanent hall for such events, but he died in 1861 before it met fruition. The inconsolable queen erected this extravagant monument in his memory. Designed by George Gilbert Scott, the Gothic-styled, medieval-inspired structure included allegorical figures representing Europe, Asia, Africa and America. Fashioned of granite and marble, the memorial also features a 14-foot statue of the prince himself. Nearby sits Albert Hall, the domed structure that he originally envisioned. Completed in 1871, it hosts both classical and contemporary concerts. TUBE: South Kensington
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Big Ben
Parliament Sq, Houses of Parliament, London, UK - England SW1A 0AA
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WESTMINSTER. Arguably London's most famous landmark, this clock tower rises above the Houses of Parliament, former site of the Palace of Westminster. Although the tower has long been called "Big Ben," that moniker actually belongs to the tower's largest bell, which weighs more than 13 tons. The tower itself is 320 feet high, and its four clock faces are each 23 feet across. The tower, however you choose to refer to it, is a striking focal point for the Houses, especially when the sun throws the entire structure into golden relief. TUBE: Westminster
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ST. JAMES'S. Offering a glimpse of a city under siege, these underground chambers illustrate British efforts to thwart German bombs and hostilities during WWII. They're where Prime Minister Winston Churchill led the government, coordinated communications, and held out against Nazi aggressions. The rooms are laid out much as they were when the war ended, complete with furniture, maps, and technology. Churchill lived here at times, and a portion of the museum is devoted to his life and leadership. TUBE: Westminster or St. James's Park
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BLOOMSBURY. Enthusiasts of English literature find much to appreciate in this fine home, the only one of Charles Dickens' residences still remaining. "Oliver Twist" and "Nicholas Nickleby" were penned here, and visitors can examine photographs and other items left by the renowned author. Much of the house has been restored to its original appearance. TUBE: Chancery Lane
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Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace Gardens, London, UK - England W8 4PX · 0844 462 777
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KENSINGTON. This Jacobean mansion, flanked on all sides by Kensington Gardens, was purchased by William and Mary in 1689. Queen Victoria lived here until she became queen, and, more recently, it was Princess Diana's home. Inside, 17th-century paintings and furnishings make for interesting viewing, and a permanent exhibit features the Princess's dresses. Concessions available for tickets online. TUBE: Queensway or High Street Kensington
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Southwark Cathedral
Montague Close, near London Bridge, London, UK - England SE1 9DA · 20-7367-6734
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SOUTHWARK. Sited on what was originally the location of a Roman residence, this Gothic cathedral was built in the 15th century. In fact, a church has been on the site for hundreds of years. During its long history, Southwark was attended by Chaucer, Shakespeare, James I of Scotland, and John Harvard, founder of Harvard University. In the 20th century, the church was completely restored, and it's still an active parish today. Exhibits charting the cathedral's history are available for viewing. TUBE: London Bridge
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WEST END. Built in 1726 to the specifications of designer James Gibbs, this historic church sits on Trafalgar Square's northeast corner near the National Gallery. Crafted of stone, it's distinguished by an ornate portico and a clocktower spire. Although the elegant structure is of more recent vintage, worship on the site was common as far back as the 13th century, when fields surrounded the church and animals grazed nearby. These days, the elaborate interior attracts visitors, as does the basement Cafe in the Crypt and lunchtime concerts, especially popular with West End professionals. The church also offers a center where folks can make rubbings from historic bronzes. TUBE: Charing Cross or Leicester Square
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CITY. The world's most famous bridge offers an exhibit describing its unique history and its role in London's development. The bridge, known around the world for its pale blue lines and Gothic style, first opened in 1894. The museum takes you through succeeding years with animatronics and interactive displays, which punctuate fantastic views of the Thames. If you're lucky, the bridge will open for a passing ship while you're there, showing off the advanced architecture and mechanics involved. TUBE: Tower Hill or London Bridge
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WEST END. London's largest, most prominent square remembers British victory over the French in a battle off the coast of Spain. Led by Lord Horatio Nelson, British forces diminished Napoleon I's military power and headed off a possible French invasion of England. Today, Nelson's statue stands atop a commemorative column in the square. Throughout the year, Trafalgar also hosts celebrations (especially New Year's Eve), protests and other public events. Fountains, easy access to the National Gallery and lots of people-watching add to the square's allure. Just don't feed the robust population of pigeons. TUBE: Charing Cross
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WESTMINSTER. An important architectural and historical stop, Westminster Abbey is where kings and queens are crowned yet today and where many famous figures are buried. The cathedral is immensely popular with tourists, so be prepared to wait. Highlights include the Gothic-style nave, built in the 13th century, and the ornate coronation chair. Memorials to political, literary and religious figures dot the aisles, and attractive gardens ring the area. The church is still active as a parish, and there are services every day. (No admission charged to worshippers.) TUBE: Westminster or St. James's Park
Ready to look into the past and learn about the heritage of this fascinating city? We list historic homes, plantations, battlegrounds, and churches that are rich in history and provide for an educational travel diversion.
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