London’s local landmarks are famous throughout the world, and a mid-week break provides the ideal opportunity to see them for yourself, without the weekend rush which so often affects famed tourist hotspots. Here’s our quick guide to the London landmarks you need to see next time you’re in the city…
Buckingham Palace
The official London residence of the Queen, Buckingham Palace is a must-see for visitors of all ages. During the summer months, you can take a tour of the interior state rooms and browse the grounds. Throughout the year, the daily changing of the guard provides a great chance to enjoy this most quintessentially British of traditions during your trip to the city. The palace is steeped in the nation’s history and also situated close to some of the capital’s other great sights, meaning it’s well worth the trip during your stay at the Park Hotel Kensington.
Westminster Abbey
This historic abbey has been the site of sixteen royal weddings, lots of significant funerals, and every coronation in the country since 1066. In addition, it’s also a fully-functioning church offering daily services in stunning surroundings. If the hustle and bustle of big city living doesn’t appeal, Westminster Abbey can provide a more spiritual break. Start a peaceful day in the capital with breakfast in Kensington before heading out to explore this beautiful landmark.
Houses of Parliament
Where better to get close to what really makes London tick than a visit to the Houses of Parliament? The UK’s seat of government is an impressive structure; it was once a palace and is situated alongside the Thames. You can tour it, experience watching real session of Parliament, or simply take a look from the outside.
Tower Bridge
Great to view either at a distance or up close, Tower Bridge is a truly iconic sight in London, and there’s lots of ways of finding out more about the bridge’s history through the tours and talks which regularly take place there. For a fantastic day out in London, start with a boat trip along the Thames, then visit the Tower Bridge engine rooms or enjoy a storytelling session and walk around for unique views – all before returning to your hotel and indulging in a meal at your Kensington Hotel Restaurant.
London Eye
The London Eye is one of the city’s most popular attractions, and it’s easy to understand why! This giant Ferris wheel offers a bird’s eye view of the capital which is unrivalled anywhere else in London, and provides stunning vistas of many of the city’s other great landmarks. There’s a selection of great add-ons available for those seeking to add a more luxurious edge to their spin on the London Eye, but a conventional trip in one of the spacious pods should provide more than enough opportunity to take some great photos or simply marvel at the London skyline.
