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5 Things You Can Learn From Touring London
London is the most visited city in Europe. It attracts more than 27 million tourists every year. With a rich history and outstanding culture, London counts as one of the most diverse cities in the world.
Although it is the smallest city in England, it is home to 9 million people. With so much to explore, it is impossible to get bored and you always find something interesting in London.
Let’s explore 5 things to do and learn from touring London.
1. Museums- Get a Glimpse Of The History of England
There are lots of museums close together in London, especially on Exhibition Road in South Kensington. The infamous Diplodocus skeleton in the Natural History Museum attracts most tourists.
The entire museum is filled with rare stuffed animals and ancient fossils and some of them are millions of years old. Kids will love the Science Museum to investigate scientific progress throughout the ages and indulge in hands-on activities.
If you want to learn more about the cultural history of England, take the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). It has an artwork display and you will find many art students and young artists sketching classical ironwork. Explore centuries of archaeological discoveries, mummified remains, and the Rosetta Stone in the British Museum.
2. 10-Minute Helicopter Flight Over Central London
The best way to observe the main highlights of the city is to climb aboard the adrenaline-fuelled helicopter flight. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city center, and explore the iconic landmarks from an unusual perspective.
Look down the St. Paul’s while flying over the River Thames and get an overview of the London Eye and Westminster Abbey. You will get the live commentary from your guide cum pilot in English only. It is available for everyone who is fit enough. Health considerations include scare of flying, pregnancy, heart situation, epilepsy, and limited mobility.
3. Buckingham Palace – The London home Of Queen Elizabeth II
A trip to London is incomplete without getting a view of Buckingham Palace. Since 1837, this palace has been the residence of the British Royal Family and hosts guests for official, ceremonial, and state affairs.
Some part of the palace is open for the tour. Travelers can have a glimpse of the royal lifestyle and learn about their exquisite English and French furniture, paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens, chandeliers, candelabra, and magnificent pieces of artwork from the Royal Collection. Changing the Guard is the daily routine, a few times every day and it is the most historic tradition in London.
4. Hop On Hop Off City Bus Tour To Get A Close View Of The City
Explore London’s iconic landmarks on a hop-on-hop-off bus if you are a phobia of flying and want to avoid the helicopter ride. This bus has around 60 stops and it covers five different routes. You can hop on and hop off as many times as you want.
On this bus, you will get the opportunity to explore some of the iconic places of the city. They are Trafalgar Square, Oxford Street & Regent Street, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, Madame Tussauds, Shakespeare’s Globe, Buckingham Palace, and much more.
The multilingual guide offers live audio tour guides in the following languages: French, Japanese, English, Spanish, German, Russian, Portuguese, and Brazilian. Take a walking tour to learn more about the culture of London.
5. Thames Cruise- Take a tour of the city in a unique way.
The Thames is the lifeline of London and is the longest river in England. It has a huge role in industrialization in London. It always has been of strategic importance to the English and the Romans Kings, especially during both world wars.
Moreover, Several companies are offering the cruise across the Thames. You can catch the cruise from several key locations at intervals of every 20 minutes. Furthermore, the cruise passes through the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, the London Eye, etc.
Best time for tours in London
The best time for tours in London depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. Here are a few factors that you can consider for your visit to London:-
Weather or climate:
London’s weather is known for being quite unpredictable, with rain possible at any time of the year. However, the period from late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it a popular time for tours.
Busy Tourist Season:
Very busy tourist season in London is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is usually warmest. This is also when many attractions and tours can be the busiest and most expensive. If you prefer to avoid crowds, you might want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October).
Festivals and Events:
London hosts various festivals, events, and celebrations throughout the year. Consider checking the event calendar to see if any festivals or special events align with your interests.
Daylight Hours:
Longer daylight hours in the summer allow for more time to explore and enjoy outdoor tours. In contrast, the days are shorter in the winter (December to February), which might limit your sightseeing time.
Christmas and New Year:
London’s premises is beautifully decorated during the holiday season, with many festive markets and activities. However, keep in mind that some attractions and tours might be closed or have limited operating hours on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Off-Peak Season:
The winter months starts November to February are considered the off-peak season for tourism in London. While you might encounter fewer crowds and potentially find lower prices for accommodations and tours, the weather can be chilly and damp.
Ultimately, the best time for tours in London depends on your choice for weather, crowd levels, and the types of tour activities you want to experience. It’s a good idea to research specific events, check the weather forecast, and consider your personal comfort when planning your trip.
List of things to know before you exploring London.
Exploring London and its tourism is a dynamic and diverse experience. From historic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to world-class museums like the British Museum and Tate Modern, the city offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and artistic attractions.
Explore the iconic River Thames, vibrant markets like Camden and Borough Market, and immerse yourself in West End theater. With its efficient public transport system, diverse culinary scene, and welcoming atmosphere, London caters to all interests and preferences, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world. However, there are certain list of 17 things that you need to know before you explore London:
1. Public Transport:
To get to London has an extensive public transport system, including the iconic London Underground (the Tube), buses, trains, and trams. Consider getting an Oyster card or a contactless payment card for convenient and cost-effective travel.
2. Tipping:
Tipping is customary in restaurants, cafes, and bars, typically around 10-15% of the bill. Some places might include a service charge in the bill, so check before leaving an additional tip.
3. Currency:
British Pound Sterling (GBP) is a currency that people can use in London. Make sure to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases.
4. Language:
English is the primary language spoken in London. However, London is a multicultural city, and you’ll likely hear various accents and languages spoken due to its diverse population.
5. Climate and Weather:
Climate and weather in London can be unpredictable like in the Himalayas, so it’s always an idle to pack layers and an umbrella, regardless of the season.
6. Emergency Numbers:
In case of emergencies or rescue, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance.
7. Museum and Gallery Entry:
Many of London’s museums and galleries offer free entry to their permanent collections. Special exhibitions may have an entry fee.
8. Stay on Queue:
British people are known for their love of queuing (waiting in line). Respect this cultural norm, especially in crowded places.
9. Electricity:
Their standard voltage is 230V, and the plugs have three rectangular pins. You might need a plug adapter if your devices use a different type of plug.
10. Time Zone:
London operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during the winter months and British Summer Time (GMT+1) from late March to late October.
11. Safety measure:
Generally, a visit to London is a safe for tourists, but like any big city, be cautious of pickpocketing and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
12. Healthcare:
If you’re from a country with a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, you can entitle to free or reduced-cost medical treatment under the National Health Service (NHS). Otherwise, travel insurance is recommended.
13. Cultural Etiquette:
It’s polite to queue, stand on the right side of escalators (allowing others to pass on the left), and use “please” and “thank you” in interactions.
14. WiFi access:
Many cafes, restaurants, and public places offer free WiFi, but it’s a good idea to have a mobile data plan or SIM card for convenience.
15. Opening Hours:
Some shops and attractions might have different opening hours on Sundays or holidays, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
16. Eating Times:
Lunch is usually around 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM, and dinner is commonly serve from around 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
17 Cultural Diversity:
London is incredibly diverse, with a rich mix of cultures and cuisines. Embrace the opportunity to try a variety of foods and experience different cultural events. Remember that London is a vibrant and dynamic city with a lot to offer. Being well-prepared will help you make the most of your exploration and enjoy your time in this iconic destination.
Conclusion
London offers lots of ways to explore its beauty. It has some of the best art galleries, and museums, tourist spots, restaurants, shopping centers, and much more. Roam around the city and learn about its ancient history, culture, and traditions.
About Author
I am Ammar Raj Guni, a university graduate and also a licensed holder trek tour guide, and mountain guide working since 2001 AD. I am a photographer, and an entrepreneur, that loves finding new places and getting out in nature.
On my blog, I create blogs, and articles, and develop unique travel itineraries for your trip to the Himalayas, so you'll discover an assortment of experiences, travel ideas, guides, and tips to help you plan your next excursion!
In addition, I am also an avid learner and enjoy staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in areas of interest and believe that writing is a powerful tool for sharing knowledge, inspiring others, and making a positive impact in the world.
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