London – RoverAtlas https://roveratlas.com/ Tue, 29 Jun 2021 12:04:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 https://roveratlas.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-compass-152121_1280-32x32.png London – RoverAtlas https://roveratlas.com/ 32 32 27 Best Places to Visit and Things to do in London, England https://roveratlas.com/europe/england/london/best-places-to-visit-and-things-to-do-in-london/ Sun, 18 Apr 2021 13:10:34 +0000 https://cms.roveratlas.com/?p=2975 Read more]]> London attracts several million visitors every year which makes it one of the most visited cities in England. Being extensively diverse, London is a city with a rich culture and history which is wonderfully depicted by the array of attractions it houses like the Buckingham Palace, cathedrals, museums, River Thames, and so much more.

With some of the best collections of art, glamorous dining options, bustling bars, excellent food, and varied shopping avenues, London is a city that must be on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. If you are planning to explore this glorious city and wish to know the interesting things to do in London and places to visit in London, read on!

Westminster

Located near the famous Buckingham Palace, Westminster is a well-known government area in London bustling with tourists and locals. While the London politicians mingle in the multitude of pubs in Whitehall, the tourists are more concerned with exploring the monuments in Trafalgar Square.

Another popular activity which you must witness is the guard changing event at the Horse Guard Parade. Just by the Thames river, the House of Parliament is situated where you can find the most iconic clock tower of the city, Big Ben. When you explore further and come across Westminster Abbey, you can find the graves of famous historical figures like Charles Darwin, King Henry V, Isaac Newton, and Charles Dickens, among others.

Westminster palace.jpg
By DaniKauf, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Near Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London | Timing: 24/7 Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/pqRKauCwBrBRqFwQ7

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of the most idyllic parks in the heart of the city. You can explore a plethora of exciting activities in Hyde Park, including swimming, boating, tennis, horse riding, jogging, skating, and walking, among many others. The innumerable adornments of the park in the form of colorful flowers and lush green trees make for a fascinating sight.

The glittering lake surrounding the park adds to the beauty of the place, attracting tourists in thousands every day. Apart from the natural beauty, Hyde Park also encompasses some of the most insightful memorials, monuments, statues, fountains, and several other buildings.

Hyde Park from air.jpg
By Leonard Bentley, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: 142 HA, Central London | Timing: 05:00 am to midnight | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/EJGpatVnXx5pud6T9 | Phone number: +44 300 061 2000

London Eye

Witness all the major landmarks of the city through a bird’s eye view by hopping on the tallest cantilever wheel of the world. Some of the key places that can be witnessed from the London Eye include Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge.

The ride goes pretty slow giving you enough time to soak in the beauty of London and to marvel at the various fascinating landmarks. Try visiting this London attraction during a special themed event to make the most of your trip. If you do get a chance, visit the London Eye on New Year’s Eve to experience the spectacle of city skylines filled with firework displays.

London Eye at night 2.jpg
By Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)., CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, South Bank, London | Timing: 11:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/bqwZVpVYmr7vggt59 | Phone number: +44 20 7967 8021

Camden Town

No trip ever is truly fulfilled without an indulgent session of shopping and night dining for gourmet food. The best place to indulge in both these experiences is the Camden Market in Camden Town. The moment you set foot in this shopping market, you can see an array of food stalls, bars, and restaurants featuring delicious food delights.

This shopping market also features plenty of shopping centers featuring some of the trendiest fashion styles, divine perfumes, swanky jewelry, and other accessories for sale. If you love partying at night, you can stay back till sunset in this shopping market and explore the happening night scenes here. Do visit the Camden Town Brewery and take a refreshing sip of some of the best-brewed beers in the city.

Camden town 1.jpg
By Misterzee, CC BY 3.0, Link

Address: Camden Market, 54-56 Camden Lock Pl, Camden Town, London | Timing: Sunday-Monday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Tuesday-Saturday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/MEcVzLTrYKtzZEUf8 | Phone number: – +442037639900

The Trendsetter Shoreditch

Shoreditch is not only the coolest place in London to reside in but it is also known for hosting the best nightlife experiences. It is packed with an array of bars and eateries, making it the perfect place for a visit during the day as well as during the night.

One of the most recommended bars to visit during the night is Trapeze bar, which is a circus-themed bar. If you are into pop culture, try lounging in Far Rockaway bar where you can find lined up comic books and 90s band posters. If you wish to enjoy London’s nightlife and bars by trying out the American staples, try sticky ribs at Blue Kitchen.

Shoreditch, South end of Shoreditch High Street - geograph.org.uk - 1690122.jpg
By Dr Neil Clifton, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: Trendsetter Shoreditch, London | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZfyTuASDNdzyeXYK6

Enjoy the Nightlife at Soho

One of the fun things to do in London is to explore the nightlife at Soho. Soho has long been considered to be the city’s base for the sex industry. Lately, it has transformed into an area where you can experience the best nightlife in London. Although there are still a few sex shopping centers in Soho open here and there during the night but there is much more to this place than this.

Soho is one of the prime locations for the LGBTQ communities and you will find several lesbian and gay bars light up throughout this area during the night, which comes alive as soon as the sun goes down during the night. In addition to this, Soho is also the home to some well-known jazz bars, theaters, and restaurants.

Soho,London.jpg
By Alex Tomaras , CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Soho, UK | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/FHZmuTKqJ46yxTocA

British Film Institute or BFI

If you are someone who loves films, you must visit the British Film Institute or BFI. BFI is in the popular Southbank area which features the perfect areas for spending leisure time with friends and family. This vibrant part of the city is best explored by strolling along the waterfront while taking in the culture of the city.

The British Film Institute shows a variety of films every day. You can pick from the mainstream blockbuster movies, reshowing of the classics, or the indie hits being featured in BFI. At BFI, you can also visit the riverfront restaurant and bar for delicious food snacks and drinks.

BFI London IMAX at night.jpg
By Robert Aleck, CC BY-SA 2.5, Link

Address: Belvedere Rd., South Bank, London | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/hkEbEHvSwSio19hn9 | Phone number: +44 20 7928 3232

Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath is known to be the most scenic area in London with openly accessible spaces. It is located about six kilometers from the iconic Trafalgar Square and spans an area of 790 acres. The defining features of this area are the quaint woodlands, rambling hillocks, vast playgrounds, and serene ponds.

This area is also known for housing the highest points of the London city, which is Parliament Hill. From here, you can enjoy unrestricted city views while being surrounded by nature. Hampstead Heath is one of the places where the city’s local culture and history are experienced through the various experiences offered here.

Hampstead Heath, North-West.jpg
By Loz Pycock, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: Hampstead Heath, London | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/G6fnaf4BJCVXyypq6 | Phone number: +44 20 7332 3322

Baker Street

Baker Street is a cultural staple of London city which became famous since the well-known detective Sherlock Holmes lived here. If you are a Sherlock Holmes fan, you must explore the Sherlock Holmes museum, which is located beside the Underground Station.

Baker Street also houses the famous Madame Tussauds museum, where you can pose alongside the amazing wax statues of renowned celebrities. Once you have explored these prominent London tourist attractions, escape the crowded streets of this area by lounging in Regent’s Park or witness London city’s spectacular views from Primrose Hill.

Sherlock Holmes Museum 221B Baker Street.JPG
By Apsu09, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Marylebone, London | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/HfPk68E8tS11eFEq6

Cruise over the River Thames

The River Thames in London has been the lifeline of trading in the city for several years. One of the most interesting activities in London is enjoying a cruise over the glistening waters of the River Thames. Many companies offer such cruises which start every 30 minutes from various cruise pick-up points located at the prime locations of the city.

The cruise features the sightings of many key monuments like the Houses of Parliament, the Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. You can enjoy a romantic London sightseeing experience with your loved one by opting for any of the night cruises post-sunset in the night.

City Cruises 'MV Westminster' on the River Thames, London 01.jpg
By Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: River Thames, London | Timing: 10:45 am to 07:45 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/YQCvvZJ7Qhyt6wb5A

Portobello Road Market

Explore the ever-changing trends and adventures at the Portobello Road Market in London. This market runs on a strict schedule throughout the week and is generally closed on all Sundays. You can pick up a variety of antiques from the local stores here as souvenir pieces or gifts for friends and family back home.

If you love shopping for clothes, you will enjoy exploring the clothing stores in Portobello Road Market. You can end your day by munching on the scrumptious street snacks sold here. Also, do not forget to explore the wine collection at the shopping centers here.

Portobello Road Market in London, spring 2013 (4).JPG
By Chmee2, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Notting Hill District, West London | Timing: Monday-Saturday: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm, Sunday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/8fPmFxFQfBa8ynAu9

Leake Street Tunnel

The Leake Street Tunnel in London is a part of the Leake Street Arches and is one of the best things to see in London. It is famous for being the largest street art area in London. You can see several tourists swarming in and out of this tunnel, marveling at the art on the tunnel walls.

Leake Street Tunnel is dotted with a multitude of restaurants, bars, cafes, and creative centers. In 2008, during the Banksy and the Can festival, about 30 artists came together to display their artistic talent. Their splendid art can still be seen here and is one of the prime pieces of art in the tunnel.

Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel Looking North.jpg
By Ethan Doyle White, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Leake St., South Bank, London | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/tqD4hWFHYr3nnFi19

Imperial War Museum

Deemed as one of the finest museums in the world, the Imperial Museum is one of the must-see places in London. It features many prominent apparatus and equipment used during the World Wars. Not only does it display several archives of art pieces that played a prominent role in London’s history, but it also focuses on educating the tourists about the story behind each of these displayed art pieces.

This museum also throws light on how the World Wars affected people through several portraits adorned on the walls. This museum is more about following a realistic approach to art viewing.

Imperial War Museum, London (geograph 4108048).jpg
By Peter Trimming, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: Lambeth Road, London | Timing: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google map location:https://goo.gl/maps/6TbZscem6AYsYD9Q6

Go to the Global Brixton Market

When you set foot in Electric Ave in London, the first thing you would notice is the Brixton Market. To date, the entire market street is lit with electric lights and hence the name “Electric Ave”. If you are looking for any type of Caribbean, African, Asian, or South American goods, one of the top things to do in London is to visit the Brixton Market.

This market is one of the lesser-known places in London and is not often crowded, which is good for all those visitors who hate the hustle-bustle of the central city. Here you can experience a different side of the city and also try out unique dishes while shopping for interesting products from the lined-up stores.

Electric Avenue Market 01.JPG
By Matus Benza , CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Electric Ave, Brixton, London | Timing: 08:00 am to 11:30 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/rshakwAoMcDDBqXa6 | Phone number: +44 20 7274 2990

Piccadilly Circus

You would be surprised to know that Piccadilly Circus is not a circus at all in reality. Piccadilly Circus earns its name from Roger Biker who was famous for making and selling Piccadilly once upon a time. Earlier, this place was confined to a circular public area. However, it has transformed into a busy square bustling with tourists every day.

Piccadilly Circus is close to several sightseeing spots of the city including, Haymarket, Leicester Square, Oxford Circle, Regent Street, and Shaftesbury Avenue. Try planning your visit to this place during the night when this area transforms into a welcoming sight. Tourists generally visit this place to see the spectacular Eros Statue and a quick glimpse of the city’s hustle-bustle.

London, Piccadilly Circus -- 2016 -- 4866.jpg
By Dietmar Rabich, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Piccadilly Circus, London | Timing: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/NjXxd4ufu5ymNbY59 | Phone number: +44 20 7734 4507

West End Theatre District

Just like watching a show on Broadway is a must when visiting New York, witnessing a theater act in any one of the theaters in the West End District is a must when visiting London. There are more than 40 theaters that dot this district and each of these theaters has regular shows hosted by some of the world-renowned talents.

If you are someone who does not enjoy theater acts, you can still have a late-night stroll near Leicester Square, which is very lively after sunset. To find the best ticket deals, you need to visit any one of the TKTS booths on the day of the performance.

Chinatown - West End Theatre District

Address: West End, London | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/2WvDD36u8DxiB6jdA

The Postal Museum

The Postal museum displays the traces of the British’s postal history wonderfully. It shows how complicated it was during the earlier times to set up and run such a postal system. Once you are done visiting the museum, for a more real experience, head to the Mail Rail located right across the street.

This subterranean train line in London was used to transport more than a million mails beneath the London city streets every day. This train line was shut in 2003 and then a revamped version of it was opened in 2017 mainly for tourist viewing purposes. Now, you can enjoy the delightful experience of exploring the little-known underground train tracks of the city.

Postal Museum (London) - Pneumatic Car - 1863.jpg
By Gaius Cornelius, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: 15-20 Phoenix PI, London | Timings: Thursday, Friday, & Sunday: 10.30 am to 05:00 pm, Saturday: 10.30 am to 06.30 pm, Monday-Wednesday: Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/thepostalmuseum?share | Phone number: +44 300 030 0700

The National Gallery

The National Gallery of London is another famous tourist spot in Trafalgar Square which must be visited during your trip to London. This gallery was established in 1824, and over time, it has managed to collect and display more than 2000 paintings by some of the most renowned artists of the world.

The famous art pieces in this gallery are ‘The Virgin of the Rocks’ by Leonardo da Vinci, ‘The Fighting Temeraire’ by J. M. W. Turner, and ‘The Ambassadors’ by Hans Holbein. The Sainsbury Wing is a recent addition in this gallery which encompasses some of the most important paintings making this section the most impressive in the entire gallery.

Galería Nacional, Londres, Inglaterra, 2014-08-07, DD 036.JPG
By Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London | Timing: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ujsobzHK3H9785Lr8 | Phone number: +442077472885

Tower Bridge

One of the most iconic symbols of London, the Tower Bridge is famously located on the River Thames. Earlier, there was a royal prison inside this tower, and during those times it was called the “Tower of London”. The construction of this tower roughly took around eight years and it showcases an exemplary level of design and engineering.

The Princess of Wales was the first to officially open this bridge to the public in 1894. The most striking feature which makes this bridge so famous is the pair of grand towers that stay connected with the help of parallel pathways. You can visit these connecting pathways to witness unobstructed panoramic views of the city.

Tower bridge, London opening for a ferry.jpg
By Tropical1979, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Tower Bridge Rd., London | Timing: 10:30 am to 07: 00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/Nnimq6Zeb7wmfnSU9 | Phone number: +44 20 7403 3761

Tate Modern

Visiting Tate Modern is one of the best things to do in London city because you get to witness the perfect blend of contemporary and modern art. This art gallery showcases some of the most challenging art pieces to the masses. In 2016, this gallery welcomed the Blavatnik Building which increased the space for exhibition by almost 60%.

Here you can find more than 60,000 art pieces by talented artists like Henri Matisse, Georges Braque, Andy Warhol, and Piet Mondrian. Make sure to visit the Tate Modern shop to check out postcards, art books, and prints as a gift for your friends and family back home.

Tate modern london 2001 01.jpg
CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Bankside, London | Timing: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/robpVKH5ZgCtb5a19 | Phone number: +44 20 7887 8888

King’s Cross

King’s Cross is one of the busiest districts in London, famous for housing a popular train station. Although there are many London attractions and things to do in London’s King’s Cross, the one thing which makes it so popular is the train station which was established in 1852. Recently this train station has been renovated to a sleek and a more modern look.

The reason behind this train station being so popular is that it houses Platform 9 ¾ from the Harry Potter movie series. If you are a Harry Potter fan, do not forget to click a picture with the luggage trolley disappearing into the wall.

Platform 9¾,  Kings Cross Station, London.

Address: King’s Cross station, Euston Rd, Kings Cross, London | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/GxhL719SUTgNVsiN6 | Phone number: +443457114141

The Royal Parks

The Royal Parks of London sprawl over an area of about 5000 acres and are open on all days of the week. You can visit these parks for free and enjoy yourself with your friends and family. Numerous activities can be enjoyed in this park making it a great place to visit for every kind of traveler.

You can take a slow, peaceful stroll here with your family or you can even try other activities like bike riding and swimming. Since these parks are so large, they host several events and concerts throughout the year. From birdwatching to boating, kid’s playgrounds to grand gardens, these parks offer the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Beautiful scenery of Royal Parks of London - panoramio.jpg
By Alexander Kachkaev, CC BY 3.0, Link

Address: The Regent’s Park, The Park Office, The Storeyard Inner Circle, London | Timing: Monday-Saturday: 09:00 am to 06:00 am, Sunday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/GAuCH4mkUxtd8cCR6 | Phone number: 0300 061 2000

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of the most visited royal buildings which is also the place of residence of the Queen of England. If you visit London’s Buckingham Palace during a national or local celebration, you can catch a glimpse of the Queen who appears in front of the local audience through the central gallery in the palace.

This palace consists of lavishly decorated rooms and passageways with grand carpet spreads, sparkling candelabras, marble columns, and ultra-fine furniture sets. The Throne Room is the prime London attraction at this palace where the royals hold almost all their ceremonial receptions. Other principal attractions of the palace include the Herbaceous Border, Tennis Court, Rose Garden, Summer House, and Waterloo Vase.

Buckingham Palace from gardens, London, UK - Diliff.jpg
By Diliff, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Westminster, London | Timing: 09:30 am to 05:30 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/1jPrinYmvC6DSs5R7 | Phone number: +44 303 123 7300

Tower of London

This official fortress of Queen Elizabeth II in London, located in the heart of the city, reveals British history’s momentous happenings and tales. The Tower of London has been previously used as a prison and has also served as a repository for sensitive royal documents. At the Tower of London, six ravens are kept captive in the Tower of London. This culture is traditionally followed as it is believed that these ravens protect the Tower as well as the Crown.

The riveting craftsmanship and architecture of this historic monument surrounded by the sparkling Thames river are what made this tower famous among the locals as well as tourists. When here, you must head to the Jewel House where you can witness one of the largest cut diamonds of the world, Kohinoor diamond weighing more than 105 carats.

Tower of London viewed from the River Thames.jpg
By Bob Collowan, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: St. Katharine’s & Wapping, London | Timing: Timings vary, Summers: 01 March to 01 November, Winters: 02 November to 12 February | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/Fx8S5k8Xp2JDoxoa7 | Phone number: +44 20 3166 6000

Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill is a quaint little village gem located in the Northern part of London. One of the most striking things about this village is that you will find the streets lined with houses painted in pastel shades. The top of Primrose Hill features breathtaking views of the city, and this is exactly why many celebrities make their homes here.

You will find this place is jam-packed during the summer season with locals enjoying picnics while enjoying the bird’s eye view of the city. If you wish to skip the crowd, pay a visit to this place during the weekdays, and enjoy a stroll through the streets of Primrose Hill with your loved one.

Primrose Hill, London -16Sept2010.jpg
By Snowmanradio, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: Regent’s Park, London | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/EBcTSKUWERpRbrJt7

British Museum

One of the most interesting places to visit in London is the British Museum. Established in 1753, the British Museum holds one of the largest collections of art which beautifully depicts the age-old history and culture of the city. If you are an art enthusiast, you would love to explore the priceless artifacts here that are acquired from Babylonia, Assyria, Europe, China, and several other places.

Some of the main highlights in the British Museum include Senusret III, Gebelein mummy, Amenhotep III, Goddess Sekhmet, and the coffins from Egypt. In addition to this, this museum also has an onsite bookshop where you will find an exhaustive collection of titles ranging from archeology, ancient history, and art history.

British Museum at last light

Address: Great Russell St., Bloomsbury, London | Timing: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, last entry: 03:30 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/Ko8mgcuyAVeMJQ3t7 | Phone number: +44 (0)20 7323 8181

Borough Market

Borough Market is a London institution, a hidden gem located in the heart of Southwark, at the point where the River Thames meets the South Bank. Here you can enjoy some of the freshest and tastiest artisan food in all of London.

Boasting of a vast range of vendors, Borough Market is one of the most popular destinations in London for both tourists and Londoners alike. Here, you can leisurely try a variety of delicacies such as gourmet food, refreshing beers, delectable desserts, and a wide array of fresh produce, flowers, etc.

Its charm and allure have resulted in Borough Market being named as an award-winning historic street market. It is also one of London’s oldest markets and can trace its history back to the 15th century.

Entrance to Borough Market

Address: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL, United Kingdom | Timings: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Friday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm; Saturday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm; Sunday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xS59EXHkREG6Vsbc9 | Phone number: +44 20 7407 1002

If you are ever planning a trip to London city and are wondering about which are the best places to visit and things to do in London, the above London to do list can surely help you out. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to this city rich in culture and history to have one of the most memorable trips of your life.

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46 Yrs Old, Sturdy London Bridge – History, How to go, What to See, Where to Eat https://roveratlas.com/europe/england/london/london-bridge-history-how-to-go-what-to-see-where-to-eat/ Sat, 14 Mar 2020 22:58:41 +0000 https://cms.roveratlas.com/?p=2515 Read more]]> Tucked underneath the Shard’s gaze, the London Bridge is a popular site located in the western region of Europe in London. Being situated alongside the renowned Thames river in London, this architectural marvel offers thrilling experiences and unusual sights. This iconic site is one of the oldest structures of London, which boasts of maritime, historical, and culinary connections to the significant events that have shaped the history of the city.

London Bridge
View from the Shard of London Bridge

In and around the London Bridge, you will find spectacular attractions, splendid sights, and an array of restaurants, bars, and shops. You will also get an opportunity to visit the Tower of London and the Tower Bridge that have gained massive popularity as global landmarks in London. 

With so much to see, eat, and explore, the London Bridge is a must-visit destination for every traveler who loves experiencing the fusion of modernity with historical traditions.


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History of London Bridge

The history of the London Bridge is quite intriguing. Several events in history have shaped this structure to what it is today.

On the north shore, between the City of London and Southwark, Romans observed that the Thames river estuary is shallow. So naturally, the Romans decided to build a bridge to consolidate their new city of Londinium. Londinium is the same place where you can see the City of London now.

London Bridge in past
London Bridge in Past

Soon after the Romans left, London declined, and the Thames river defined the natural border between the regions Wessex and Mercia. After this, in the 12th century, it took around 33 long years to erect a bridge of stone. This bridge also accommodated a chapel at the center to show the dedication towards the famous Thomas Becket. During those times, the pilgrims used to set off at this point for Canterbury Cathedral. Originally, this bridge had several shops and accommodated a mechanism to let the ships through. However, the Great Fire of London destroyed a significant part of the bridge. After this, several portions of the bridge started falling off, which led to the nursery rhyme “London Bridge is Falling Down”, which became quite popular worldwide.

During the 16th century in London, the London Bridge accommodated structures that were seven stories high. Also, the London bridge became massively crowded, and crossing this bridge during the peak hours of the day would take more than an hour. This version of the London Bridge also featured the heads of outlaws and traitors on spikes on either side of the London bridge.

In the year 1799, the reigning king here welcomed new design modifications to the London Bridge. In 1831, John Rennie furnished the London Bridge with a new design, but it remained the most congested bridge in the region, with about 8,000 pedestrians crossing it every hour. The congestion led to the London Bridge sinking thirty years later.

Later, in 1968, America bought London Bridge for around $2,460,000. They moved every piece of the bridge to Arizona, and creatively rebuilt the entire structure. The London Bridge that you see today has concrete girders that are pre-pressed for added stability. Queen Elizabeth II made this version of London Bridge accessible to the public in 1983.

Things to do and see around London Bridge

Known to be the tallest building situated in the western part of Europe, The Shard takes over the skyline of the London Bridge. For witnessing spectacular vistas of the city of London, head straight to 68 to 72 levels that feature a viewing spot called ‘The View from The Shard’.

Once you have soaked up the stunning views of the London city, move further to explore the exciting attractions near the London Bridge Station. If you love thrilling experiences, you must check out the Herb Garret, Museum, and the Old Operating Theatre, where doctors performed several operations without any dose of anesthetic.

After this, take a short stroll towards the Borough Market that is known to be the oldest food market in London. It remains open on all days of the week except Sundays and features a variety of food traders who sell delicious cheese, artisan cakes, fish, meat, veggies, bread, and so much more.

Borough Market (4701274756)
Borough Market, London

Right next to the Borough Market, you will find Southwark Cathedral. This is the oldest church in London based on gothic values and is worth a visit.

Southwark.cathedral.nave.london.arp
Southwark Cathedral, London

Your visit to the London Bridge would be incomplete without a stroll alongside the Thames river. While strolling along the Thames river, you will find an incredible range of things to do. For a bit of retail therapy, head to the Hay’s Galleria, which is a shopping center housed in a remarkable space. There are several free events that take place frequently by the Thames river. To experience these events or to enjoy the beauty of the Thames river, you can head to Potters Field Park or the Scoop located beside the London City Hall.

If you want to experience the heat of the battle, hop on the HMS Belfast, which is a big gun warship from WWII. This naval warship features a total of nine decks with simulated radar units and operating rooms.

London November 2013-14a
HMS Belfast, London

Go further downstream to venture into the London Tower Bridge to explore the working of this world-famous bridge. Do not forget to walk over the pathway made of glass to witness the breathtaking view of London.

If you like keeping up with the latest trends in the fashion world, you must check out the Fashion and Textile Museums where you can visit the fascinating exhibitions.

If you are exploring London Bridge with your children, make sure that you take them to the Unicorn Theatre. Here, several eclectic young artists set up a program to display their talents.

After a day of exploring the different parts of London Bridge, enjoy some leisure time in the London Bridge Theatre, which is a riverside venue with over 900 seats.

Where to eat around London Bridge: Bars and Restaurants

London Bridge was also known as “London’s Larder” during the earlier times. When large quantities of exotic food from all over the world were shipped to London, they were stacked carefully in the warehouses by the river. Today, you can find a range of culinary experiences that caters to every budget and palate.

When you are wandering through the Borough Market in London, you will get to sample a number of interesting food options and drinks along the way. If you are there for a weekend, head to the popular destination Bermondsey, where you can find the Maltby Street Market. Even here, you can grab a few tasty bites of local delicacies sold by local artisans and food producers.

Maltby Street Market
Maltby Street Market, London

Recently, the London Tower Bridge launched an array of delicate eating joints. These include The Coal Shed, The Ivy Brasserie, Tom Simmons, and Baluchi. Here, you will also find one of the Michelin star restaurants in London, Restaurant Story, which is head by Chef Tom Sellers. At Restaurant Story, you can taste some of the most uniquely curated dishes presented with near perfection. The chef here curates phenomenal dishes using only the seasonal ingredients that are locally sourced.

If you want to dine in style, try out the Asian Fare featured by Ting and Hutong. You can also glance at the stunning bird’s eye view of London city from here. All you grilled-food lovers, must go to Oblix, where you can find a variety of grilled food. If you want to sample modern British cuisine, visit The Aqua Shard that is located nearby.

To enjoy panoramas that are down-to-earth, head to the European eateries like Cantina del Ponte, Le Pont de la Tour, and Cote Brasserie. To experience more variety in the European cuisines, you can try out the dishes at the several riverside establishments located in More London.

There are a host of independent eateries and restaurants tucked away in Bermondsey Street in London. These include Champor-Champor, Tanner & Co., Texas Joe’s, Londrino, and Pizzaro. 

If you feel like dining in a quiet place without the hustle-bustle of the crowd, visit Antico Restaurant, which exudes an epitome of class and antiqueness. The menu here changes according to the seasons in London. The contemporary dishes featured by this restaurant show a perfect blend of authenticity and modernity.

Antico/214 Bermondsey, Bermondsey, SE1

If you are on the lookout for a few exciting pubs and bars in and around London Bridge, try the Upper Deck Bar hidden in HMS Belfast. This place features an unbeatable alfresco inspired setting. To enjoy the outstanding London city views while sipping on a drink, you must go to GONG. Another famous place to visit in London to lounge leisurely is the George Inn. This place gained massive popularity after Charles Dickens mentioned it in a write-up on London. If you want to quench your thirst with an outstanding variety of cocktails and mocktails, go to London Grind, Quarter Bar, or Nine Lives.

You must not miss visiting the London Bridge area when on a trip to London and a chance to marvel at this significant historical structure of London and enjoy all its offerings. From panoramic London city views to highly delectable food, London Bridge has something for every type of traveler. 

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