Welcome to London!
From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge to the vibrant streets of Camden, every corner offers something unique. Whether you’re exploring world-class museums, strolling through royal parks, or indulging in traditional afternoon tea, London is a city that captivates with its charm and diversity.
Big Ben
The striking Houses of Parliament and its famous clock tower, Big Ben, are among London's most iconic landmarks. The Gothic-style building is officially known as the Palace of Westminster and has been part of British political life for centuries. Debates, laws, and decisions that shape the nation's future take place.
Standing at 316 feet, Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell housed in the Elizabeth Tower, though many mistakenly refer to the entire clock tower as Big Ben. The bell itself weighs over 13 tons and has been chiming since 1859, marking the hour with a deep, resonating sound heard throughout the city.
During my visit, the tower was covered in scaffolding as part of ongoing restoration efforts. While it was a bit of a bummer not to see the full view of this iconic structure, it's a reminder that even the most timeless landmarks require a little TLC from time to time.
Buckingham Palace
October 1, 2021
Located in the heart of London, Buckingham Palace is one of the most famous royal residences in the world. As the officially home of the British monarch, it's been the center of royal life for over 180 years. The grand palace, with its iconic façade and beautifully manicured gardens, is a symbol of British history, tradition, and ceremony.
Whether you're admiring the architecture from the gates or catching the daily ceremonial events, Buckingham Palace remains a must-see destination in London, standing tall as a testament to British monarchy and heritage.
Camden
October 3, 2021
Camden has a vibe like no other—bold, eclectic, and full of energy. Wandering through its streets, I saw everything from vibrant street art to quirky market stalls selling vintage clothes, handmade jewelry, and international street food. The Camden Market was a highlight, with endless stalls to explore. Before leaving, I picked up oreo tea as a souvenir to bring home for my family—something unique to remember the experience by.
Even just walking along the canals and soaking in the alternative, artistic atmosphere made Camden a memorable experience. Whether you're shopping, eating, or just people-watching, this neighborhood has a character that’s completely its own.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. Before heading in, I grabbed a sandwich from Bathurst Deli and found a quiet bench inside the park to eat.
Afterward, I walked along the Princess Diana Memorial Walk, a scenic route that winds through some of London’s most famous royal parks.
Kensington Palace
October 1, 2o21
Nestled at the edge of Hyde Park, Kensington Palace is a stunning royal residence with a rich history and beautiful gardens. It has been home to Queen Mary III, King George II, Queen Victoria, and Princess Diana. Walking through the grounds, I admired the grand architecture.
Stepping inside, I walked through beautifully decorated rooms filled with royal portraits, elegant furnishings, and fascinating exhibits about the lives of past and present royals. It was incredible to see the history come to life, from the grand King’s State Apartments to the more intimate spaces once inhabited by Queen Victoria.
One of the highlights was seeing the exhibits dedicated to Princess Diana, featuring some of her most iconic fashion pieces, including her wedding dress!
Even if you don’t step inside, the palace grounds and surrounding gardens make for a lovely stroll, but exploring the interior adds an extra layer of history and charm to the visit.
London Bridge
While it might not be as grand as Tower Bridge, London Bridge is still an iconic part of the city’s skyline and history. I didn't walk across the bridge because of the rain, but seeing it from a distance was still a cool experience. Standing by the Thames, watching the city lights reflect on the water, I couldn’t help but think about the centuries of history this bridge has witnessed.
Though the current version of London Bridge is a modern structure, its location has been home to various bridges for nearly 2,000 years, making it one of London’s most historic crossings.
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Piccadilly Circus
Visiting Piccadilly Circus at night was like stepping into a mini version of Times Square. The bright billboards, bustling crowds, and energy of the city made it feel alive. Standing in the middle of it all, surrounded by neon lights and historic buildings, I could see why this spot is such a famous London landmark.
Platform 9 ¾
As a Harry Potter lover, visiting Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station was a dream come true! Seeing the famous luggage trolley disappearing into the wall made me feel like I was about to board the Hogwarts Express myself. The setup is perfect for photos, and the nearby Harry Potter shop is filled with wands, house scarves, and all kinds of magical souvenirs.
Even though it's a simple spot, standing there felt like stepping into the wizarding world for a moment. For any Harry Potter fan, this is definitely a must-visit in London!
St. Paul's Cathedral
Standing beneath the massive dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral, I was in awe of its grandeur and history. The intricate details of the architecture, from the towering columns to the beautiful stained-glass windows, made it clear why this is one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
One of the highlights was climbing all the way to the top, where the panoramic views of the city were breathtaking. I loved the iconic spiral staircase that were featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban movie—it was surreal to stand on the very same staircase where Harry and Ron ran after the flying car!
Tower of London
Visiting the Tower of London felt like stepping back in time. With its centuries of history, this fortress has seen everything from royal imprisonments to infamous executions. Walking through its medieval halls, I explored the Crown Jewels, which are kept in a secure vault and on display for visitors to marvel at. Seeing the Tower’s ravens was also a highlight—legend has it that if they ever leave, the kingdom will fall!
I couldn’t help but imagine what it was like during its dark days as a prison, but there’s also so much beauty here, from the white stone of the White Tower to the lovely views along the Thames. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about London's past, the Tower of London is a must-see landmark with stories to tell at every turn.
Wellington Arch
Located at the edge of Hyde Park, Wellington Arch stands as a grand monument to British military victory. The towering structure, topped with a statue of a cavalryman, offers a striking view of the city. I made sure to climb up to the viewing platform, and the panoramic views from the top were well worth it, with the surrounding parks and streets offering a unique perspective of London.
One of my favorite parts of the visit was learning about Snooks, a cat who became a bit of a local legend in the 1950s. In the small museum inside the arch, I saw a photo of Snooks sitting at a desk with a police constable, making a report in 1952. It turns out that Snooks had a habit of wandering into the arch and “helping” the officers with their work. This quirky piece of history brought a smile to my face! Whether you're into history, quirky stories, or just looking for great views, Wellington Arch is a hidden gem in London.
Westminster Abbey
Stepping inside the Westminster Abbey felt like walking through centuries of British history. I was in awe of the stunning Gothic architecture, with its soaring arches and beautiful stained-glass windows. The abbey has hosted some of the UK’s most significant events, including royal weddings, coronations, and funerals.
I was particularly moved by the Poets' Corner, where famous writers like William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and Jane Austen are memorialized.
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