London, a city steeped in history and brimming with culture, offers a plethora of iconic landmarks that every first-time visitor should explore. From world-renowned museums to majestic palaces, London has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, these seven must-see landmarks are sure to make your trip unforgettable. And remember, Tripcorner can help you plan and book your perfect London adventure, ensuring you don’t miss a single highlight.
Key Takeaways
- The British Museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the world, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- The Tower of London, a historic castle on the River Thames, offers a glimpse into London’s royal past and is home to the Crown Jewels.
- Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, is a symbol of the UK’s rich heritage and offers the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Westminster Abbey, a Gothic masterpiece, has been the site of royal coronations, weddings, and burials for centuries.
- The London Eye provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the city’s skyline, offering a unique perspective of London’s landmarks.
1. British Museum
The British Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting London for the first time. It was the first-ever national museum for the public, opening its doors in 1759. The museum showcases global artefacts discovered by British explorers, documenting human culture from its very beginnings.
Must-See Exhibits
When you visit, make sure to see the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. These are some of the most famous pieces in the museum’s permanent collection.
Plan Your Visit
The British Museum is vast, and it can take multiple days to see everything. If you’re short on time, focus on the Egyptian wing and the Elgin Marbles. These sections are highly recommended and deserve your attention and energy.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- The museum is free to enter, but donations are appreciated.
- Check the museum’s website to plan your visit and zero in on sections that interest you the most.
- Be prepared for a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
On your first visit to London, there is a relatively long list of landmarks, world-class museums, and essential British experiences to put on your to-do list.
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2. Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of the capital’s best and most well-known historical attractions. Start your visit right when it opens to get the most out of your experience. The Tower offers wonderful architecture, gruesome stories, and hands-on activities for younger visitors. Don’t miss the Crown Jewels, a highlight for many tourists.
Attractions
- Historic buildings and sites
- Tower Hill
- Costumed actors and guides
- Confident ravens
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early to avoid crowds
- See the Crown Jewels first
- Be prepared for steep and long flights of stairs
Accessibility
- The White Tower has hundreds of stairs, which may not be suitable for everyone
- Consider walking around the outside if you have mobility issues
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3. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the home of the royal family and one of the most popular tourist attractions in London. It’s a grand palace with stoic guards who attract large crowds when they end their shifts, known as Changing of the Guards. Nearby tube stops include Westminster (Circle, District, and Jubilee Lines).
Attractions
A visit to Buckingham Palace offers a chance to see world-famous art, glimpse regal opulence, and get inside HM’s headquarters. In the summer, the palace opens to the public for tours, letting you go behind the keyhole of what’s one of the most – if not the most – famous buildings in London. Inside, you’ll learn about the monarchs and the big, ornate palace itself.
Sightseeing
Take a stroll across Westminster Bridge, admire Big Ben, Parliament, and Westminster Abbey before walking through St James Park and on to Buckingham Palace for a look at the golden gates and huge palace.
The Mall
The Mall is the grand avenue leading up to Buckingham Palace. It’s often used for ceremonial events and is a great spot for photos. Make sure to check the schedule for any events that might be happening during your visit.
When visiting London for the first time, Buckingham Palace is a must-see landmark. Don’t miss out on this iconic experience!
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4. Westminster Abbey
Historical Significance
Westminster Abbey is not just a church; it’s a treasure trove of history. Seventeen monarchs are buried here, along with famous figures like Darwin, Dickens, and Hardy. Every single British coronation has taken place within the Abbey’s walls since 1066. It’s also played host to 16 royal weddings.
Architectural Marvel
The Abbey’s Gothic architecture is breathtaking. From the intricate stonework to the stunning stained glass windows, every corner of this building tells a story. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Pantheon Crypt, where you can see the tombs and memorials of great historical figures.
Visitor Experience
A visit to Westminster Abbey is a must for any first-time visitor to London. Take the Vergers Tour to get an in-depth look at the Abbey’s history and architecture. After your visit, you can take a short walk to nearby attractions like the Churchill War Rooms and Buckingham Palace.
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5. St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is a 300-year-old masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren, standing as an iconic symbol in London. Perched atop Ludgate Hill, it’s been a site of historical significance for centuries. The cathedral as we know it today is actually the sixth version, with the last one being infamously razed to the ground by the Great Fire of London in 1666. Thankfully, Wren’s design, completed in 1708, has survived 12 monarchs and two world wars.
Attractions
When you visit, you’ll be treated to an introductory talk before embarking on a 90-minute tour. The tour covers the cathedral’s rich history, its architectural marvels, and its role in significant events.
Religious Buildings and Sites
St. Paul’s is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a working church with daily services. You can attend a service or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
St. Paul’s
The cathedral is a must-see for anyone visiting London. Its dome, one of the largest in the world, offers breathtaking views of the city. Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery, where a whisper on one side can be heard clearly on the other.
Why go? To snoop around the most famous royal residence in the world.
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6. London Eye
The London Eye is an iconic part of London’s skyline, built to celebrate the year 2000. Step into one of its spaceship-like pods and you’ll be halfway into the sky, taking in sweeping vistas of the city. It’s located right next to the River Thames, making it a convenient stop on your sightseeing tour.
Things to Do
- Enjoy breathtaking views of London from above.
- Take memorable photos with the city as your backdrop.
- Experience the 4D Cinema Experience included with your ticket.
Event Spaces
The London Eye offers unique event spaces for private functions, providing a stunning backdrop for any occasion. Whether it’s a corporate event or a special celebration, the views will make it unforgettable.
South Bank
Located on the vibrant South Bank, the London Eye is surrounded by a plethora of attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great area to explore before or after your ride.
TIP: The London Eye has several different prices depending on when you book and visit. Early morning, late evening, or weekday tickets are usually cheaper. Booking online at least 24 hours in advance can save you up to 20% off the regular price!
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7. Tower Bridge
Walk Across Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is arguably the most attractive bridge in London. It’s immediately recognizable and, because of its icon status, it is often confused for being the London Bridge. The real London Bridge is not quite as visually impressive, but it is still worth a visit since it is the London Bridge, after all!
Explore Inside the Bridge
There’s more to this ornate Victorian bridge than something cool to look at: you can actually venture inside. Check out the engine rooms with their whirring wheels and pistons, then head up to the glass-floored viewing platform above the draw bridge, where you can delve into this magnificent structure’s story.
Free Walkways
You can walk across Tower Bridge on the pedestrian walkways on either side for free — no entry ticket required. If you want to go up into the tower, you can buy tickets to explore it and take in the panoramic views.
Nearby Tube Stops
- Tower Hill (Circle and District Lines)
- London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern Lines)
Fun Fact
Time it right and you’ll see the bridge rising up to let paddle steamers and barges through. A full schedule of bridge lift times is available on their website.
Pro Tip: One of the best walks you can do in the city to get your bearings is walk along the South Bank of the Thames from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge. This will allow you to see the major sites of Big Ben, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Globe Theatre. Make sure you pop into the Borough Market for lunch along the way. This is one of the best markets in London!
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Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking views and a rich history. Whether you’re planning a visit or just dreaming of your next adventure, our website has everything you need to create a fully customized day-by-day itinerary for less. Don’t miss out on the best travel deals and tips!
Conclusion
London is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and modernity, offering a plethora of landmarks that are a must-see for any first-time visitor. From the iconic Tower of London to the breathtaking views from the London Eye, each landmark provides a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of this vibrant city. As you plan your trip, remember that Tripcorner is here to help you customize your journey, ensuring you get the best deals on flights, hotels, and excursions tailored to your tastes. Don’t just visit London; experience it with the expert guidance of Tripcorner, making your first visit truly unforgettable.
