While there are many modern attractions and things to do, there’s no denying that many of London’s top attractions have been around during the many centuries of its existence.
From its many royal palaces, to the governmental institutions that made Britain a model nation for others around the world, the most historic neighborhoods in London should occupy a central position in your travel itinerary.
So, before you go to travel around London in a private limo, be sure to take the following suggestions into consideration so that you may make the most of your time here.
St. James’s
Dive right in by making St. James’s your first stop. This central neighborhood contains a number of royal addresses, from Clarence House, which is home to the current Prince of Wales, and St. James’s Palace, which is where the current Princess Royal (Princess Anne) lives.
This posh neighborhood is also surrounded by a number of major attractions, with Piccadilly Circus being on its north side, and the many fountains and lion sculptures of Trafalgar Square being on its eastern end.
Small in overall area, this place is easily traversed on foot, making it a good place to walk off your jet lag on your first day here.
Westminster
Go back to the roots of the United Kingdom by spending some serious time within the bounds of Westminister. It is here where the Houses of Parliament can be found, as well as the Westminister Abbey, which is one of the most recognizable cathedrals in the entire country.
It was within the Abbey’s hallowed walls where royals have been married since the 11th century, but if you aren’t lucky enough to be here when they aren’t getting hitched, its spectacular aesthetic qualities will still impress, as it is commonly considered to be one of the greatest Gothic cathedrals in the world.
St Katharine’s & Wapping
Next, head down to St Katherine’s & Wapping, which is situated on the north bank of the Thames. While most of the buildings in this neighborhood are of the modern persuasion due to the redevelopment of the Docklands district 20 years ago, this area is nonetheless home to two of London’s most iconic landmarks.
The first of these is the Tower of London, which was built by William the Conqueror in 1078. Over the centuries, it has served many functions, from holding high-profile political prisoners, to being home to the National Treasury and the Crown Jewels, the latter of which continues to this day.
After exploring this historical treasure at your leisure, make your way to the riverfront and check out the Tower Bridge.
Built in the Victorian era, two exquisitely built towers sit atop the bridge’s two piers, which used to house the steam-driven hydraulic system that allowed river traffic to pass through this span.
There is a museum exhibition housed inside the towers, as well as at a museum situated on the southern bank right next to the bridge’s access point that will be of great interest to infrastructure geeks.