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Ah, London. It's not all jellied eels and pearly kings and queens, you know. This wonderful capital city is a cultural cauldron, and the home of exciting art, theatre, music and opera. It's also great for sightseeing. Take time to explore the well-known attractions such as the Tower of London, which is the home of the crown jewels, and has a bloody history that will thrill the children. It's said to be haunted by a host of ghosts, including a screaming lady and a giant bear... so watch your step!
While you're on the tourist trail, make sure you see Trafalgar Square, with its iconic Nelson's Column and the fountains where revellers come to frolic on New Year's Eve. The National Gallery overlooks the Square, and the National Portrait Gallery is just around the corner, so pop in for a dose of culture while you're there (or just head straight to the rooftop restaurant at the top of the NPG). Leicester Square – where the celebs rock up for film premieres – is just around the corner, if you fancy star-spotting.
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Left: Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Right: Tower Bridge with the iconic Gherkin building in the background
Other highlights of London include the South Bank – fabulous for cafe culture, people-watching and boat trips. And don't miss the Tate Modern, a free contemporary art museum, housed in a former power station. The Millennium Bridge, just outside the Tate, has been dubbed the 'wobbly bridge' due to early engineering problems. Use it to cross over the river and see the spendours of St Paul's Cathedral.
It's also fun to see changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace. A short hop away is the magnificent Westminster Abbey and you're now in the political heart of the capital. Opposite is Houses of Parliament, where the Prime Minister and the MPs hang out. You can also set your watch to Big Ben, the clock that has become one of the country's most famous landmarks.
Above: Trafalgar Square (oh yes, it's always sunny in London)
It's traditional to stop for afternoon tea, so when in London... well, we recommend heading for the patisseries in Soho. Wander through nearby Chinatown, where you can pick up herbal remedies, or settle down to a bowl of noodles. If you prefer curries, head East, and stop off for a sensational chicken tikka on Brick Lane (Aldgate East or Liverpool Street tube). We'd also recommend exploring the stalls and shops at trendy Spitalfields Market.
Now, if you're ready to leave London behind, shall we start our voyage towards Stonehenge?
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Above: The haunted Tower of London (left) and beautiful Westminster Abbey (right)
On your marks!
On the way...
You're there!
London Country Tours
Arrive at Stonehenge in a luxury limo with London Stonehenge Tours. Or tackle three historical centres, in a day, with the Cheam, London, Stonehenge Tour