Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
You can’t really picture London without Big Ben towering over the Palace of Westminster. People started calling it the Elizabeth Tower back in 2012, after Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, but let’s be honest—most folks still stick with Big Ben. That clock tower, with its detailed Gothic Revival style and those deep chimes, pretty much owns its spot on the Thames. Right next door, the Houses of Parliament have seen centuries of political drama. If you want the classic view, walk across Westminster Bridge at sunset. The tower lights up in gold, and suddenly you’re standing in the middle of a postcard.
Tower of London
You can feel the weight of history as soon as you set eyes on the Tower of London. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, it’s played so many roles—fortress, palace, prison—that the stories practically seep from the stone. Royal plots, executions, legends, they all happened here. Today, people line up to see the Crown Jewels, all sparkling crowns and orbs used in royal ceremonies. Wander the old walls and towers, and you’ll hear about famous prisoners like Anne Boleyn and Sir Walter Raleigh. And if you spot the Yeoman Warders (most call them Beefeaters), don’t miss their tours—they bring the place to life with tales you won’t forget.
Buckingham Palace
You haven’t really been to London unless you’ve stopped by Buckingham Palace. This is the monarch’s official home—stately, grand, and unmistakably royal. The Changing of the Guard draws crowds every day, all pomp and marching right outside those iconic gates. In the summer, some of the palace, including the glittering State Rooms, open up for visitors. Standing out front, you get a sense of both royal splendor and the energy at the heart of the nation.
Tower Bridge
People mix this up with London Bridge all the time, but Tower Bridge is the one with real wow factor. Finished in 1894, it pulls off that rare trick—looking like something out of a fairy tale while still being a feat of Victorian engineering. Twin towers, sky-high walkways with glass floors, and views that stretch along the Thames and across the city. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the bridge lifting for a tall ship. Whether you see it by day or glowing at night, Tower Bridge sticks in your memory.
The British Museum
London has endless museums, but the British Museum stands in a league of its own. Open since 1753, it’s packed with over eight million pieces from every corner of human history. The Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies—they’re all here. Admission’s free, so anyone can wander in and marvel. Even the building itself impresses, especially the Great Court with its glass and steel roof designed by Norman Foster. For anyone who loves history, the British Museum feels more like a pilgrimage than a visit.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
You can spot St. Paul’s Cathedral from all over London. That huge dome is pure Baroque, and it’s more than just beautiful—it’s a symbol of the city’s resilience. Sir Christopher Wren designed it in the late 1600s, and it’s been the backdrop for huge events: weddings, funerals, and moments that shaped the nation. Inside, climb up to the Whispering Gallery, where even a whisper echoes around you. If you keep going, the Golden Gallery offers some of the best city views you’ll find. St. Paul’s isn’t just stunning—it’s deeply woven into London’s story.
The London Eye
For a fresh look at London, hop on the London Eye. Opened in 2000, this giant wheel on the South Bank gives you a bird’s-eye view of the city. Each glass capsule takes about half an hour to make a full rotation, so you have time to spot Big Ben, the Shard, and even Windsor Castle if the sky’s clear. Dusk is the best—watching the city lights flicker on below is pure magic. The London Eye shot to fame fast, and now it’s one of the country’s top attractions and a symbol of modern London.
Trafalgar Square and Nelson’s Column
Trafalgar Square sits right in the middle of London, buzzing with life. You’ll find fountains splashing, statues watching over the crowds, and some of the city’s best museums just steps away. At the center stands Nelson’s Column, a towering tribute to Admiral Lord Nelson and his victory at the Battle of Trafalgar back in 1805.
People flock here for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes it’s a huge celebration — maybe Christmas lights or a crowd cheering after a big game. Other times, people gather to make their voices heard or just to soak in the energy. With the National Gallery on one side and history all around, Trafalgar Square isn’t just a landmark. It’s where London comes alive, day after day.
