Central London is packed with historic and legendary landmarks. Fortunately, you can explore it easily by foot. Or pick a “hop-on, hop-off” double decker tour bus option. Everything below is within a 2-mile walk from Buckingham Palace. To make the most of your time and energy, study a map before you begin your walk and cover a small section each day.
St Paul’s Cathedral is 300+ years old – the first church was built in 604.
The organ at St. Paul’s dates back to the late 1600s.
Climbing the enormous dome is a lot of fun! After 259 steps, you reach the interior Whispering Gallery. Yes, a whisper against its walls can be hear on the opposite side. Continue higher to the Stone Gallery (about 17 stories high) to encircle the dome outside with fantastic views of the city. The Golden Gallery is the very stop – 528 steps total to reach.
With 1+ million square feet, Harrod’s is the largest department store in Europe. It’s gorgeous inside, a must to explore.
Buckingham Palace is in the middle of all the London top sights.
Victoria Memorial, beside Buckingham Palace
Another view of Buckingham Palace, surrounded by parks and gardens to explore.
Left: Albert Memorial. Right: Big Ben
The gorgeous Palace of Westminster with Big Ben.
Stroll Kensington Gardens and continue through adjacent Hyde Park to reach Buckingham Palace.
View from Kensington Gardens looking toward the Albert Memorial and Royal Albert Hall.
Westminster Abbey is amazing! Construction begin in 1245. Be sure to take the inexpensive Verger-led guided tour. Enjoyed every minute of that, especially the “behind the scenes” parts. 6,000+ people are buried inside the Abbey, including kings, queens and a whos-who of Britain’s history.
Afternoon tea is a must in London! Our spot was the National Portrait Gallery.
People watch at Trafalgar Square.
Overlooking Trafalgar Square is the National Gallery and St Martin in the Fields.
Love this window inside St Martin in the Fields church.
Enjoying a meat pie at Covent Garden Market in the West End
Riding across Tower Bridge on a double decker bus tour. For first timers, taking a “tourist” tour like this is great for orientation as soon as you arrive.
Westminster Cathedral is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales.
Regent Street, near Piccadilly Circus
1000-year old Tower of London meets modern skyscrapers.
Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, Hyde Park
David had the privilege of playing the organ in St. Paul’s Cathedral – as well as Westminster Cathedral.