With the beginning of the summer, people are looking for destinations to spend the long holidays.

There are numerous options to choose from. What can be more exciting than beating the scorching heat of summer and visiting the most famous monuments in London?

Here is everything you should know about the dream city- London and by everything, I mean everything!

1. All You Need to Know About London Skyline

1.1. History

London, previously known as Londinium, existed for two million years and was founded by Romans around 43 CE.

London was first mentioned in available texts by the Greek historian Tacitus. From King Charles to Queen Victoria- many distinctive personalities are a part of the city’s glorious history.

In fact- the London we know today started its development journey after the Industrial Revolution. As time passed, the city soon emerged as one of the largest financial hubs in the world.

1.2. Divisions- London Skyline

London skyline has three parts- the City of London, Southwark, and the City of Minister. Roman settlement used to exist in the city of London. It is better known as Central London.

Southwark is located on the south bank and is a suburb. The city of Westminster is to the upstream of Southwark.

The city of London is the main point for trade and commerce. Southwark is well known for its hospitals, monasteries, and hotels, which are basically urban structures.

The City of Westminster is known for the Westminster Abbey (church), which is the destination for royal family occasions and events.

1.3. The People and Culture

London is located in southeast England and has a very different vibe that makes anyone go crazy. The city has some of the most beautiful and heavenly churches because more than half of the population follows Christianity.

The infamous Londoners live a hasty life, with their daily schedules almost packed, racing against time to meet their daily commitments on time.

You will always find the people of London dot on time for their daily affairs because punctuality is a principle followed strictly by the people there.

1.4. The Food

The eminent English Breakfast contains beans, mushrooms, potatoes, etc., and is famous all around the globe for its taste and richness of ingredients.

This dish attained popularity around the eighteenth century when industries started coming up in Europe and other nearby continents.

Not only the English Breakfast, but you can also enjoy some other delicious dishes in the city, such as Scotch egg, pie, and mash, that you will no doubt crave even after you return from the trip.

1.5. The Weather

The best part is that the weather in London is fine and calm during the summers, neither too hot nor too wet or gloomy, perfect for visitors and tourists.

You can expect a wonderful visit to the beautiful city weather to add to the fun.

1.6. Places Of Accommodation

The city has some of the best hotels and guest houses where you can experience the utmost hospitality. Some of the best hotels in the London area are Brown and Savoy Hotel. There are also good economical options for accommodation which you can rely on. But booking is always preferable for the best economic value.

2. All About the Famous Monuments in London

London houses some of the most beautiful and world-famous pieces of architecture that represent its glorious British history.

There are royal palaces and statues- dedicated to the queens and monarchs. From royal palaces such as Kensington Palace, Westminster Palace (also known as House of Parliament) and famous landmarks such as Big Ben, the monuments are well recognized all around the globe. Nonetheless, London has something in for everyone.

Here is a list of some of the best monuments in London that should be on your Wishlist.

2.1. Big Ben

Previously known as the Clock Tower, this is among one of the most important monuments in London, which has become an iconic landmark.

To clarify, Clock Tower was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee.

Big Ben is the name for the bell of the tower. It is indeed one of the iconic landmarks in London, which never goes unnoticed, even by the locals in the city.

Located in Westminster, the 96-meter-tall structure has around three hundred steps that lead to the top. It is a notable symbol of British culture and democracy that is widely recognized all over the map.

The clock rings after every fifteen minutes, the sound can be heard easily from around eight to nine kilometers. The massive bell weighs approximately twenty-nine thousand pounds(thirteen thousand kilograms).

Surprisingly, the clock shows accurate time even now, being hundreds of years old and is said to be continuously operational over the following years. The structure is said to have survived the bombing of World War II.

The iconic monument witnesses footfall in thousands every day as people come to take a glimpse of the magnificent piece of architecture.

2.1.1. Places to Visit Near Big Ben:

• The Cavalry Museum– Visit this museum– located near Big Ben, and enhance your knowledge about British history with the antique collection preserved in the museum.
• Attend London Dungeon– One of the most famous events organized over the years, the event sees the participation of thousands of people. Have a thrilling experience in the streets of Westminster- for 100 minutes and experience the spine-chilling rides.
• Westminster Bridge– Stroll down Westminster Bridge with your accompanists and enjoy the beautiful view in all directions.
• Westminster Abbey– Visit the famous Anglican church- the main attraction and among the famous landmarks of the city of Westminster. This iconic building also serves as the destination for royal events such as weddings and coronations.

2.2. St Paul’s Cathedral

The St Paul’s Cathedral is the main head of all the churches in London and serves as the seat of the bishop of London. The church dome weighs approximately seventy thousand tonnes. Three galleries are on the top of the building- Whispering Gallery, Stone Gallery, and Narrow Gallery.

The cathedral has previously witnessed some important historical events- the cremation of Winston Churchill. The church was also the wedding destination for Prince Charles and Diana Spencer’s wedding.

Mapped out by the renowned English architect Sir Christopher Wren, the church is a successful gem where one can feel peace and be immersed in the godly aura. As a result, it is among the most important churches in London and one of the most famous buildings in London.

2.2.1. Exciting Things to do at St Paul Cathedral:

• Explore stories about the church’s history and find out how the cathedral survived the great fire.
• Visit the interiors and witness the beautiful marble construction.
• Get to know more about St Paul, the famous saint who preached Christianity all around the globe.
• The top of the dome gives a picture-perfect view of London.
• Pay your respects to the heroes, Christopher Wren and admiral lord Nelson, resting in their tombs.
• Take a stroll down the golden gallery outside and see the sensational landscape.

When to visit: The church is open to tourists six days a week except on Sundays when it is closed.

2.3. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace was previously known as Buckingham House until it was renamed in 1791. Because it is the official residence of the queen and the royal family, it is the centre for royal functions and celebrations and the most crowded during royal occasions like coronation and cremation of the monarchs. It is, in fact, among the very few royal places functioning currently all around the globe.

Most interestingly, the structure is built around thirty-nine acres of land and has 775 rooms, 1500 doors, and 800 corridors. There are two entrances to this Palace, the Marble Arch and Wellington Arch, which are impressive pieces of architecture.

Built in the 18th century, the marble arch represents the victory of the Britishers over Napolean. You can find some of the best mouth-watering delicacies near this vibrant structure.

It would not be wrong to refer to the royal residence as the pride of England and one of the most famous monuments in London. The very thrilling part is that visitors can take a glimpse and walk through the royal staterooms during a specified period of the year for which the booking is required in advance.

2.3.1. Exciting Things to do at Buckingham Palace:

• Get a chance to witness the marvellous construction by visiting the interiors.
• Explore the Queen’s Gallery that opened for the first time to visitors on Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee in 2022.
• Get a glimpse of the royal treasure and collection.
• Scout through Buckingham Palace at your pace and discover the vast history behind the place to make the visit comprehensive.
• Discover the spectacular artwork in Buckingham Palace.
• Attend the famous changing of guards ceremony.

2.4. Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square holds a special place because it signifies the victory of the British against the Spanish and French. Constructed around the 1200s, Trafalgar Square became a public square in the eighteenth century.

The public square is certainly the liveliest place in London, where you will always find some hustle and bustle. It is also the prime place for popular events such as Christmas carol singing and other festivals.

Moreover, you also get to see the city’s past and history. The best part is you can find the high points, like statues and galleries, all in one place. Nonetheless, this famous monument is one of the major attractions of the city.

2.4.1. Exciting things to do at Trafalgar Square:

• Enjoy near the fountains in the square filled with crystal clear water.
• It’s time for some shopping– Spend time buying yourself jewellery, crafts, clothes, and whatnot. The Covet Garden Market, near Trafalgar Square, will provide everything you wish to purchase.
• Time for some pictures– Click on some photographs of the statues in this public square that are London’s iconic landmarks and boast about your London travels.
• It is time to have some refreshments- Treat yourself to some of the best mouth-watering dishes and exotic beverages available in the top restaurants and cafes nearby and get refreshed for the journey ahead.
• Visit Somerset House– A ten-minute walk from Trafalgar Square, this famous monument is a world-renowned attraction that witnesses footfall in thousands daily.

When to visit: This public square is open throughout the day. Therefore, you can see this monument anytime during the week.

2.5. The London Eye

The London Eye is a large monument in the shape of a wheel that stands on the banks of the River Thames. The wheel has thirty-two carriages representing thirty-two boroughs(districts) there, in London.

It has been among the popular tourist attractions of London. But you will surely not regret visiting this magnificent monument because you get a picture-perfect eyeshot from the top that is undoubtedly stunning.

Moreover, you will love the impressive breathtaking landscape, a bird’s eye view of London. This monument has some famous London landmarks located nearby. For example, the Tower of London, Big Ben, and many more.

2.5.1. Exciting Things to do at the London Wheel:

• Take a ride on the wheel and admire the magical view from the top.
• Take some Instagram-worthy pictures to add to the thrill and fun.
• Get a view of the other iconic monuments- atop 135 meters high- Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and much more.
• Visit the famous Sea Life London Aquarium and witness the extraordinary sea creatures.
• Stroll down in the famous Jubilee Gardens- located near the London Eye- and have a wonderful time- enjoying the lush green environment of the park.

2.6. Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of the most important London landmarks, and it has served as one of the prominent landmarks in London over the years. Built in the 1800s, the bridge is an exemplary masterpiece of architecture and one of London’s oldest tourist attractions.

For those who like photography, this impressive architecture is heaven because one can click countless beautiful pictures there, especially during the sunset when the landscape looks stunning.

2.6.1. Exciting Things to do at the Tower Bridge:

• Walk through the glassway from a height of forty-two meters.
• Get a beautiful view of some of the iconic monuments of London: St Paul Cathedral and London’s Eye.
• Get an insight into London’s rich history through interactive displays.
• Discover the original steam engines kept in the Victorian Engine Rooms used for the bridge’s movement.
• Walk down the bridge and experience the lightening of historic lamps made from Napolean’s army’s melted canons.
• Enjoy strolling in the nearby market and taste some of the mouth-watering delicacies of the suburb.
• Take a cruise down the River Thames. 

3. Some Suggestions to Make Your Trip Even More Amazing

3.1. A Tip for Palace Visits

All the palaces follow a 100% bag check policy, so it is advisable to carry only the minimum essential items as there are chances of your belongings getting misplaced.

Also, the royal palaces have royal gardens as part of the palace. For example, Kensington Palace has the famous Kensington Gardens as a part of the palace. Therefore, to make the visit even more comprehensive and complete, visit the gardens too.

Finally, have a single day reserved for palace visits to make the visit worthwhile. Book the tickets for palace visits well in advance to avoid any issues afterwards and have the most economical value.

3.2. A Suggestion for Church Visits

Do offer prayers and attend the local ceremonies happening in the church to enhance your knowledge of the city’s rich heritage and culture. That will make your visit more insightful and worthwhile.

3.3. Advice for Sightseeing Destinations

For photography lovers and others, carrying a DSLR is advisable to capture the beautiful moments you will have. Though this work can also be done using a mobile phone camera, you will not get the quality from pictures clicked through a mobile phone that you will get through a camera.

Closing Remarks

Nonetheless, London is worth visiting, where you will see some of the world-famous iconic monuments that will blow your mind. It is already on the wishlist of many. When are you planning your trip to London??

While making your itinerary, don’t forget to add the famous London monuments mentioned above to your itinerary and have a remarkable experience.

Last Updated on February 6, 2024 by Apeksha Soni