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Places to visit

There is so much to see in London from sites of historical interest to the latest man-made attractions. We have listed just a small sample for you to enjoy. If you feel you've had enough of the city and want some peace and tranquility then London also boasts some beautiful parks and more green spaces than any other major capital.
Buckingham Palace

Changing of the guard takes place in front of the palace at 11.25am daily Apr-Aug, alternate days Sep-Mar.
The palace itself is open to the public 9.30am - 4.15pm Aug-Sep.
T: 020 7839 1377
St James Park tube
www.royal.gov.uk
Hampton Court Palace

A magical history tour inside and out, with stunning State Apartments, a choice of six individual tours, costumed guides and 60 acres of spectacular riverside gardens including the world famous Maze.
Opening times and admission prices vary depending on season.
T: 0870 752 7777
Trains: Waterloo to Hampton Court
www.hrp.org.uk
Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

To watch a debate from the Visitors' Gallery, queue from 2.30pm onwards Mon-Wed, from 11.30am Thu and from 9.30am Fri. Guided tours can only be taken during the summer recess from Jul-Sep. Book in advance.
T: 020 7344 9966
Westminster
www.parliament.uk
Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace in London is a working Royal residence. Of great historical importance, Kensington Palace was the favourite residence of successive sovereigns until 1760 and was the home of Princess Diana until her untimely death.
Open daily 10am - 6pm
T: 0870 751 5170
High Street Kensington
www.hrp.org.uk
Kew Palace & The Banqueting House

Kew Palace is situated within the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew on the south bank of the River Thames, about 10km from central London.
T: 0870 751 5179
Kew Gardens
www.hrp.org.uk
London Aquarium

The London Aquarium experience is for anyone and everyone who appreciates the stunning and unusual natural world.
Open daily 10am - 6pm.
T: 020 7967 8000
Waterloo or Westminster
www.londonaquarium.co.uk
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The London Dungeon

Deep in the heart of London, buried beneath the paving stones of historic Southwark,lies the world's most chillingly famous horror attraction. The London Dungeon brings more than 2,000 years of gruesomely authentic history vividly back to life....and death.
Open daily.
T: 020 7403 7221
London Bridge
www.thedungeons.com
London Eye

A unique landmark offering fantastic views across the London skyline. Tickets can be bought in advance to avoid queues..
Open 10am-10pm May-Sep, 10am-7pm Oct-Apr.
T:0870 500 0600
Westminster
www.ba-londoneye.com
London Zoo

London Zoo was the world's first scientific zoo. Opened in 1828. Today, London Zoo houses a wonderful range of reptiles, fish, invertebrates, birds and mammals.
Open daily.
T: 020 7722 3333
Camden Town or Regents Park
www.londonzoo.co.uk
St Paul's Cathedral

Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece was built in the late 17th century. There are 521 steps to the highest viewing gallery so be prepared for some climbing!
Open 8.30am-4pm Mon-Sat.
T: 020 7236 4128
St Paul's
www.stpauls.co.uk
Tower of London

The mighty Tower has stood watchful over London for almost 1,000 years. With the Crown Jewels and Beefeaters it is a must-see.
Open 9am-5pm Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm Sun Mar-Oct, 9am-4pm Tue-Sat, 10am-4pm Sun-Mon Nov-Feb.
T: 020 7709 0765
Tower Hill
www.hrp.org.uk
Westminster Abbey

London's other most famous church, a sublime Gothic abbey filled with tombs of British monarchs, politicians, pets and musicians. Every nook is rich in history and intrigue.
Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-3.45pm, Sat 9.30am-1.45pm.
T: 020 7654 4835
Westminster
www.westminster-abbey.org
Parks
Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London's finest landscapes and covers 140 hectares (350 acres). Hyde Park provides facilities for many different leisure activities and sports as well as being the focal point for public events of all sizes. London's largest and grassiest parks home to the Serpentine lake and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.
Hyde Park Corner or Marble Arch
www.royalparks.gov.uk
Regent's Park

The Regent's Park has a fantastic landscape designed by renowned architect John Nash, and the largest outdoor sports area in London. It is known as the 'jewel in the crown' and covers 197 hectares (487 acres including Primrose Hill).
Regents Park or Camden Town
www.royalparks.gov.uk
St James's Park

The grand landscaping makes St James one of the most beautiful parks surrounding a tranquil lake. Buckingham Palace and Clarence House border the park.
Open 9am-dusk daily.
St James's Park
www.royalparks.gov.uk
Holland Park

Holland Park is the most romantic and intimate of London's parks. The park opened in 1952, on what remained of the grounds of Holland House. The woods and formal gardens of Holland Park surround the reconstructed Jacobean Holland House. Some of the formal gardens laid out around Holland House have survived from the early-19th century. Holland Park is also home to a season of outdoor operas that runs through the summer months.
Holland Park
www.operahollandpark.com
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