London Calling

Cost: €60+ e Gothic structure of the Houses of Parliament is another iconic London landmark. e parliament building houses the debating chambers and is the heart and soul of England’s political scene. Many people see the Houses of Parliament as a symbol of democracy. e parliament is famed for its adjoining clock tower, often falsely nicknamed Big Ben. True London enthusiasts will know that the name refers to the famous Big Ben bell –right at the top of the tower. Visitors can tour the Houses of Parliament, learning more about how the parliament functions and the roles of its di erent chambers. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has a lot of history and depth. It makes the perfect addition to your itinerary. You can read all about the Houses of Parliament in our detailed guide here. As a quick side note, when you exit the parliament, make sure to appreciate the view of Westminster Bridge. It is one of the most famous bridges in London.

Trafalgar Square

Open: 24 hours

Cost: Free

Trafalgar Square is another incredible landmark. e 19th-century square is characterised by the statue of Admiral Nelson.

Admiral Nelson led his troops to victory in the Battle of Trafalgar during the Napoleonic Wars. Since it was built, the square has seen many protests and a lot of political action. Nowadays, it features fountains and lion statues, and even London’s Smallest Police Station. You only need ten minutes or so to appreciate Trafalgar Square in full. It is an easy attraction to slot into a busy itinerary yet has a lot of oomph and history to it as well.

Charing Cross Road

Open: 24 hours

Cost: Free this tour of Buckingham Palace is a must. If you time it right, you might nish the Buckingham Palace State Rooms tour just in time to watch the Changing of the Guard.

10 Downing Street

Open 24 hours e home is gifted to every Prime Minister and acts as a private residence. For obvious reasons, the house is closed to public visitors as a relatively small property.

Cost: Free No. 10 Downing Street is one of those quick stop-andlook places. e address is marked in the brains of everyone in England and lots of people across the globe.

Unlike Buckingham Palace, the Prime Minister can hardly shift to a di erent wing to avoid guests. Besides, security is so strict that Downing Street is gated o and guarded 24 hours a day. Despite this, you can visit and peer at the Prime Minister’s house through the gates. e gates of Downing Street are also a hot spot for protests. If you have political interests, it is a fascinating place to visit and witness rsthand. Reading the protest signs and speaking to people protesting is a great way to catch up on current a airs. Since it is heavily guarded, the protests tend to stay very peaceful.

Churchill War Rooms

Open: 9:30 am – 6 pm

Cost: €22 e Churchill War Rooms are one of London’s most thought-provoking and inspiring attractions. e headquarters are underground, not far from Buckingham Palace, and marked where Winston Churchill lived and worked throughout World War II. e PM is hailed as a hero for how he manoeuvered Britain toward victory in the war. Since today is dedicated towards monarchs and MPs, it is only tting to add an attraction relating to Churchill – one of the most famous British PMs of all time. His story is told through interactive exhibits and animated stories.

Westminster Abbey

Open: 9:30 am to 3:30 pm.

Cost: €12

Westminster Abbey is one of the most famous churches in London. e protestant church is next to the Houses of Parliament and has a dramatic Gothic appearance. It’s stunning to visit and admire from the outside. is is best if you are pushed for time or on a budget. But otherwise, carve out half an hour or so to explore inside. Inside, you’ll nd that the grandeur continues, with beautiful architecture and decorations. ere are also exhibits of wax e gies.

Westminster Abbey is such an icon in London. It is the home of British coronations, dating back to William the Conqueror. It is also popular for royal weddings, including Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011.

Houses Of Parliament is Harry Potter Tour is one of the most popular in the city and takes you to the studios where it was lmed!

And Big Ben Opening times: 9 am – 5 pm.

If you are a Harry Potter fan, you will love London. Many of its streets were used as lm locations, and Charing Cross Road was used throughout all eight lms.

True Harry Potter fans might already recognise the street from the lms, but if not, take a few pictures and re-watch the snippets on YouTube. ere are loads of Harry Potter-related things to do around London, so keep your eyes peeled.

National Gallery

Open: 10 am to 6 pm.

Cost: Free

While you are in Trafalgar Square, pop into the National Gallery. e National Gallery traces the history of Western European painting. It features some of the most beautiful paintings you’ll ever see.