London

Overview

London is the capital of the United Kingdom, drawing visitors from around the world to landmarks such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Tate Modern.

History

London began as the Roman settlement of Londinium, founded in AD 43. After the Norman Conquest the building of the Palace of Westminster made it a centre of power. The Renaissance and global trade brought prosperity in the 16th and 17th centuries. During the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century it became the largest city in the world with a population of over a million. It endured both world wars and rebuilt to become the international metropolis it is today, at once conservative and inventive.

Highlights

• •The British Museum and its collections from world civilisations
• •Buckingham Palace, the royal residence, and the Changing of the Guard
• •Contemporary creativity at Tate Modern
• •Street art and fashion culture in the East End
• •The atmospheric blend of history and creative industry

Practical tips

• •The British Museum and National Gallery are free
• •An Oyster card is the cheapest way to use the Underground

Practical information

Best time

May to September

Tickets

Many museums free; individual attractions vary, and the British Museum is free

Opening hours

City open all day; most museums 10:00 to 18:00

Local food

Fish and chips, full English breakfast and afternoon tea

Getting around

The Tube and buses cover the whole city; contactless bank cards work directly at the gates

Visa

A Standard Visitor visa is required and biometrics must be provided. Apply one to two months in advance.

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