About the region
Travel to London
London is a vibrant and diverse city with something to offer everyone. From historic landmarks to trendy neighborhoods, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Visit some of the city's top museums and art galleries, like the British Museum and the Tate Modern, or explore its many parks and gardens, such as Hyde Park and Kew Gardens. For foodies, there are endless options, including hidden gems in trendy neighborhoods like Shoreditch or Camden. You can also experience London's thriving street art scene on a walking tour, or enjoy live music at one of the city's historic pubs. And for families on a budget, there are plenty of free things to do in London, like visiting iconic sites like the Tower of London or Buckingham Palace. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a luxury traveler, London has something to offer for everyone.
Getting to and around London
- By air: London is served by six airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted, which are some of the busiest airports in the world. Many airlines operate flights to London from cities across the globe.
- By train: London is well-connected to other parts of the UK and Europe by train. Eurostar operates high-speed trains from Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, which arrive at St. Pancras International station in central London.
- By bus: London is also easily accessible by bus, with many coach companies operating services from other parts of the UK and Europe.
- By car: London can be reached by car via the M1 and M4 motorways, as well as the A1, A2, and A3 roads.
- By ferry: It is also possible to travel to London by ferry from ports in France and Belgium, with services operated by companies such as P&O Ferries and DFDS Seaways.
- Once you arrive in London, you can use public transport such as the Tube, buses, and trains to get around the city, or you can use taxis, Uber, or other ride-hailing services.
Stays and experiences in London
London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom, and it is a cultural and historical hub that offers something for every type of traveler. The city is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the London Eye.
London is also famous for its museums, including the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the National Gallery, which are all world-renowned for their collections. For those who love shopping, London is a great place to visit with many famous shopping areas like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden.
The city is also known for its diverse culinary scene, with food options ranging from traditional British cuisine to international flavours from around the world. London is a vibrant and bustling city, full of history, culture, and energy, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
London is also a city full of surprises, and there are many lesser-known places to explore off the beaten track. One such place is the Hampstead Heath, a large park in North London that offers stunning views of the city skyline. Another hidden gem is the Leake Street Tunnel, an underground tunnel covered in street art, where you can see the works of some of London's best street artists. For those who love history, the Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret, a museum located in an old church tower, is a fascinating attraction that offers a unique insight into the history of medicine.
If you're looking for something different, head to the Tate Modern, or God's Own Junkyard, a neon wonderland filled with vintage neon signs, or visit the Grant Museum of Zoology, a hidden gem full of fascinating specimens from around the world. These are just a few examples of the many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered in London off the beaten track, offering a unique and authentic glimpse into the city's history, culture, and creativity.
Top 10 things to do in London
- Visit the British Museum: This world-renowned museum contains over 8 million objects spanning the history of human civilization, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
- See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace: This iconic ceremony takes place daily during the summer months and on alternate days during the rest of the year.
- Take a ride on the London Eye: This giant Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the city and is a must-do for any visitor to London.
- Explore the Tower of London: This historic castle has served as a royal palace, prison, and execution site. Visitors can see the Crown Jewels, the medieval White Tower, and the famous ravens.
- Walk along the South Bank: This pedestrianized area along the River Thames is home to many of London's top attractions, including the Tate Modern, the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the Southbank Centre.
- Visit Westminster Abbey: This iconic church is the site of coronations, royal weddings, and other important ceremonies. Visitors can see the tombs of many famous Britons, including Charles Darwin and Isaac Newton.
- Go shopping in Covent Garden: This historic market is now a popular shopping and dining destination, with a wide range of boutiques, restaurants, and street performers.
- Take a boat ride on the Thames: A leisurely boat ride along the River Thames is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
- See a show in the West End: London's West End is home to many world-famous theaters, including the National Theatre, the Old Vic, and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
- Visit Kew Gardens: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a botanical garden that contains over 50,000 species of plants, as well as several historic buildings and glasshouses.
The climate of London
London has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. The city experiences relatively consistent precipitation throughout the year, with the highest rainfall occurring during the winter months. Temperatures in London typically range from around 2°C (36°F) to 8°C (46°F) during the winter months, while summer temperatures range from around 18°C (64°F) to 23°C (73°F). However, it is not uncommon for the temperature to exceed 30°C (86°F) during the summer months, and for there to be snowfall during the winter. London can be quite cloudy, with an average of around 1,480 hours of sunshine per year, which is lower than many other parts of the UK. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before visiting London and pack appropriate clothing for the season, as the weather can be unpredictable at times.