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London is one of the world’s most iconic cities. Inhabited for over 2,000 years, it is overflowing with both history and culture. With origins dating back to the Roman times, tours through London today still reflect its ancient roots and turbulent past.
Destroyed numerous times both internally and externally (plagues, fires, bombings etc.), the city is one of the world’s most resilient. Though most of the city’s main sites, monuments and attractions are internationally recognized, the history that goes along with them is often overlooked. Perhaps this is what makes London such an interesting and multi-faceted city; taking a walk through the United Kingdom/England’s capital is really taking an interactive tour through this Atlantic island’s extensive history.
A Brief Walk Through London’s Famous Sites and History
There are a handful of destinations that tourists must visit when they tour the UK capital. From the House of Parliament to Big Ben, these are some of the world’s most recognizable places.
Buckingham Palace: The royal residence and emblem of monarchy in London. The roots of this world-famous palace reach back to the early 18th century, when the first royal residence was established on site (a house for the Duke of Buckingham- hence the name). Later converted into Queen Charlotte’s private residence and finally claimed the official palace of the monarchy in the mid 19th century, this London icon has been historically significant for the capital city for over 300 years. Still home to some timeless pieces of England’s history, the Buckingham Palace is the heart of London’s royalty.
Palace of Westminster: Also known as the House of Parliament, this site was originally home to the first royal palace of London- dating back to the 11th century. Destroyed multiple times throughout its history (entirely demolished in 1834 by a fire), what stands today is a reconstruction from the late 19th century. Surviving multiple (14) bombings during WWII, the Palace today symbolises the monarchy’s longevity.
Big Ben: Constructed over 150 years ago, Big Ben is one of the world’s tallest and largest chiming clocks in the world. Built after the demise of the old Palace of Westminster, this ultra-reliable city clock has withstood two world wars, suffered only one major breakdown and was silenced for the deaths of Winston Churchill and (recently) Margaret Thatcher. A symbol of both new world and old world London, Big Ben (recently re-titled the Elizabeth Tower) is one of the capital’s historical icons and must see attractions.
Saint Paul’s Cathedral: This iconic cathedral strategically sits at the highest point in London. With roots dating back to 604 AD (when the first church was built on site, dedicated to Saint Paul), the structure seen today dates all the way back to 1708. Narrowly escaping total destruction from WWII bombings, this London icon is a real glimpse into the United Kingdom’s extensive religious background.
Tower of London: One of the most important structures throughout English history, the Tower of London is a castle located in the center of the city. Established in the early 11th century, this structure has served as a prison, armory, treasury, home of the Royal Mint and currently houses the Crown Jewels. Still an integral part of London today, tours through the Tower of London are amongst the city’s most popular ones.
Westminster Abbey: One of the most famous Gothic style churches in London, located in close proximity to the Palace of Westminster. Built in the 10th century, this ancient church has been used throughout the UK’s history as a coronation, wedding and burial sight for English and British nobles. Another of the city’s top destinations, Westminster Abbey is a grand look into the history of British royalty.
From the British Museum to the Cabinet War Rooms, London is filled with historic sites and destinations. Take in the sites when visiting this world-renowned capital, but don’t forget to learn a bit about the extensive backgrounds for each one as well; with this is mind find a well versed London tour guide to give you the real in-depth stories behind these famous city sites.
Credits: London by Phalinn Ooi CC BY; Buckingham Palace by David Baron CC BY-SA; The River Thames at Westminster by Leonora Enking CC BY-SA; Big-Ben Clock by Alberto CC BY-SA; Saint Paul's Cathedral by Sheri CC BY-SA; Tower of London by David Addey CC BY; The Royal Wedding-Westminster Abbey by Gareth Williams CC BY