10 spots in London every senior has to visit
London is one of the world’s great cities and has endless attractions that everyone will enjoy. Don’t miss these 10 must-dos on your next visit to Old Blighty.
1. Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
We’ll start with an obvious one. Arguably London’s most iconic landmark, Big Ben and the adjacent Houses of Parliament are instantly recognisable. Unfortunately, unless you’re a UK resident you can’t go inside the tower so you’ll just have to take a selfie from Westminster Bridge.
2. The Shard
There’s so much history to see in London that it can be easy to forget the modern wonders. The Shard is the tallest building in the city and opened in 2013. As well as a luxury hotel and plenty of high-end restaurants, the viewing platforms (on floors 68, 69 and 72) offer incredible views over the city. Just make sure to visit on a clear day so you’re not looking down on the clouds.
3. Victoria and Albert Museum
London is stuffed with museums, but the V&A (as it’s known) is easily one of the most interesting and engaging. It has a permanent collection of more than 4.5 million art and design objects, and there’s a constantly changing set of exhibitions, covering everything from toys to jewellery to underwear. Admission is free (though some special exhibitions require a ticket) and the stunning café, the world’s oldest museum restaurant, is worth the visit alone.
4. Tower of London
Dating back almost 1,000 years, the Tower of London has been both a palace and a prison. Many famous Brits met their end in the courtyard (including Anne Boleyn) or spent time in the dank dungeons. Goggle at the Crown Jewels and keep your eyes out for the six resident ravens which, according to legend, must remain on site lest king and country should fall.
5. Portobello Road, Notting Hill
Is it just us or did everyone love the film Notting Hill? Recreate your favourite movie moments down the main strip of Portobello Road. It’s chock full of buzzy bars, cool restaurants and hip boutiques. The famous markets run every day, but the biggest day is Saturday and the whole street is lined with endless stalls selling fresh produce, vintage clothes and jewellery, books, antiques, furniture and food. It's also a great spot for celebrity spotting.
6. Tate Modern
Britain’s national contemporary art museum is one of the world’s best, from the dramatic building itself (once a power station) to the incredible collection inside. It’s just opened a huge new space, the Switch House, that’s a futuristic, expressionistic wing filled with the museum’s most remarkable works yet. One not to be missed.
7. British Museum
From the new to the old – the British Museum is home to some of the world’s most famous pieces of history. The (somewhat controversial) Elgin Marbles, the Rosetta Stone, mummies, samurai armour and 5,000 year old clay figurines. The visiting collections are reliably fabulous, so check the calendar before you go.
8. Camden Markets
This one might be a little off the general tourist radar, but it’s a great introduction to London street style. It's a great spot to find emerging local designers, vintage clothes, antiques and tasty street food. The area has cleaned up considerably over the last decade, though it still retains some of its original grungy feel. Plus there are plenty of lovely pubs scattered throughout for a refreshing afternoon pint.
9. London Eye
Ok, so just about every major city in the world now has one of these. But it is still pretty impressive, the views are stunning and there’s something exciting about standing in a giant plastic bubble, high above the River Thames. You can even rent a capsule for a private tour or arrange for an exclusive dinner after dark.
10. Hyde Park
When you need a little break from the grey of the city, head to the enormous Hyde Park right in the centre of the city. It’s a sprawling wonderland of trees, flower beds, lakes and paths. The park is one of four that link together to make a chain of greenery, flanked by Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace. In summer, London’s city workers flock to the grass to eat their lunch and catch a little sun. Join them.
Have you ever been to London, and if so how did you find the experience? Let us know in the comments section below, we’d love to hear from you.
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