Kensington Palace on a Budget: 10 Free London Gems Nearby

Published: April 2, 2026
kensington palace

When you picture Kensington Palace, visions of royal gardens and grand halls might fill your mind—but savvy London explorers know there’s a treasure trove of wallet-friendly adventures close by, too. The neighborhoods around Kensington Palace blend regal history, leafy green escapes, and quirky cultural stops that won’t cost you a single pound. Whether you’re a first-timer keen to maximize your London adventure, or a returning fan looking to find the best local haunts, we’ll guide you to ten top free experiences nearby. Expect hidden gardens, galleries, art, museum marvels, and more—each one helping you craft the perfect zero-cost London day. 

Our favorite free things to do near Kensington Palace include: 

Strolling through Kensington Gardens 

Exploring Hyde Park 

Visiting the Serpentine Galleries 

Admiring historic statues and memorials 

Wandering the Diana Memorial Playground 

Appreciating street art in Notting Hill 

Getting inspired at The Design Museum 

Window shopping along Kensington High Street 

Exploring Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden 

Peeking into St Mary Abbots Church 

Strolling through Kensington Gardens  

Let’s start with one of London’s true gems—you absolutely can’t miss Kensington Gardens. Sprawling directly from the palace gates, this glorious green space feels simultaneously stately and welcoming, dotted with immaculate lawns, winding paths, ornamental flower beds, and ancient trees. The ambiance here is all about balance: you’ll spot both joggers in trainers and families in their Sunday best. Grab a bench beside the Italian Gardens’ elegant fountains and soak up the tranquil atmosphere, or enjoy people-watching around the Round Pond, where fancy waterfowl take center stage. 

Playful squirrels scamper beneath your feet. Intricate statues, tucked-away alcoves, and unexpected art pop up at every turn. Depending on the season, you’ll spot bursts of daffodils, wild roses, or towering golden leaves. You can explore with nothing more than a sense of curiosity—just remember to bring your camera for those dreamy palace-and-pond views. 

Exploring Hyde Park

A hop, skip, and a royal jump from Kensington Palace, Hyde Park is London’s most beloved outdoor playground. It’s vast enough to feel worlds away from city bustle, but always buzzing with energy. Wander along the tree-lined Serpentine Lake, spy on rollerbladers who can somehow dance and spin at the same time, or pause at the lively Speaker’s Corner—London’s traditional hub for passionate (and occasionally eccentric) public debate. 

The park often surprises with pop-up art installations, free concerts, or yoga sessions on the grass. There’s plenty of space for a picnic or a chilled-out nap under the horse chestnut trees. Highlights like the Rose Garden and flower-filled borders near the Albert Memorial add an extra splash of color to any stroll. Every Londoner has a Hyde Park story—come for the stroll, stay for the people-watching, and make your own. 

Visiting the Serpentine Galleries  

Arts enthusiasts will want to pop into the Serpentine North and South galleries, stylish contemporary art spaces nestled within lush Hyde Park. Entry to both is completely free, and there’s always something new (and usually a bit thought-provoking) on display, from world-renowned artists to trendsetting young creators. 

What makes the Serpentine Galleries extra appealing is the setting—nature, art, and architecture in one. Wander from an exhibition celebrating boundary-pushing British photography to a garden-inspired installation by international visionaries, all before heading into the park for a casual lakeside stroll. Don’t miss the bold annual Serpentine Pavilion each summer, where top architects design a playful new structure beside the main gallery. 

Admiring Historic Statues and Memorials  

History isn’t locked up inside museums in this part of town. The gardens and parks around Kensington Palace double as an open-air gallery of the capital’s past. Stand before the grand Albert Memorial (it’s got to be one of London’s most eye-catching monuments) or find Queen Victoria’s statue, looking over her birthplace. Spot the whimsical statue of Peter Pan hidden among the trees, which delights kids and grown-ups alike with its playful detail. 

Every statue reveals a snippet of London’s story. Find a free moment to wander and soak in both the artistry and the history behind each piece—you may leave with a whole new appreciation for royal tales, Victorian drama, and literary legends. 

Wandering the Diana Memorial Playground  

If you’re traveling with kids (or just have a spark of youthful curiosity), don’t skip the Diana Memorial Playground. This play wonderland was built as a tribute to Princess Diana’s love of childhood joy. The highlight: a life-sized wooden pirate ship surrounded by sand you can dig your toes into. Plenty of secret hideaways, a sensory trail, and whimsical sculptures encourage creative play at every turn. 

The design celebrates wild, imaginative fun—think lush landscaping, teepees, and stepping stones instead of plastic slides. There are benches for grown-ups (with lovely shady views), water features for splashy hands, and heaps of giggling children. Entry is free, but bring your inner kid along to fully appreciate it. 

Appreciating Street Art in Notting Hill

For a visual treat beyond museum walls, wander northwards to neighboring Notting Hill. Its historic pastel townhouses and bustling Portobello Road offer endless charm, but eagle-eyed explorers will find something extra: technicolor street art, bold murals, and playful graffiti peeking out from alleyways and shopfronts. From elaborate portraits to tiny stencilled cats, Notting Hill’s art scene is constantly evolving, meaning no two strolls are ever quite the same. 

We love grabbing a takeaway coffee and wandering with no clear route—some of the best works pop up when you least expect them. Don’t forget your camera; these pop-art flourishes give even the most classic corners a modern edge. 

Getting Inspired at The Design Museum  

The Design Museum is a Tottenham Court Road must-visit for creative minds. It makes design accessible to everyone, with its impactful, changing exhibitions and a regularly-updated permanent display—Designer Maker User—that’s completely free to enjoy. 

You’ll find everything from famous chairs to early iPhones, all woven into a story about how design shapes our lives. The space itself is a beauty, combining sleek modernism and Insta-worthy lines with a friendly, conversational atmosphere. Free walking tours and creative workshops sometimes appear on their calendar—check ahead or pop in on a whim. 

Window Shopping along Kensington High Street  

Want to sample London style with none of the spending guilt? Kensington High Street lets you live out your shop-in-the-city dreams—no purchase necessary. The area’s mix of glamorous retailers, independent boutiques, and gleaming department stores invites plenty of window shopping, people-watching, and trend-spotting. 

Keep your eyes peeled for creatively styled window displays and designer goods galore. Duck into arcades simply to admire the architecture or nab a free sample in the beauty halls. The buzz is palpable; it’s where locals pick up their groceries, students grab coffee, and the odd celebrity browses for vintage denim. 

Exploring Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden  

Few places in central London feel as serenely magical as Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden. Tucked away in lush Holland Park, this tranquil Japanese-style oasis is free to enter and a must-see if you fancy a change of pace. Wander winding paths past tiered rock waterfalls, winding streams, and colorful koi carp swimming beneath cherry blossoms. 

Peacocks strut through the greenery, adding a regal flourish to the peaceful atmosphere. The garden’s carefully landscaped design invites quiet reflection and a deep inhale of calm. It’s the perfect antidote to city rushing, and absolutely worth seeking out for a moment of zen in your London day. 

Peeking into St Mary Abbots Church  

For a final low-key gem, head to St Mary Abbots Church, just steps from Kensington’s shops. The soaring spire of this Victorian Gothic landmark is a local beacon, but inside hides a world of art, history, and peaceful sanctuary. Entry is always free, and visitors are welcome to admire the richly decorated stained glass, intricate woodwork, and hushed, serene atmosphere. 

You might catch the gentle sounds of choir practice drifting through the nave, discover a centuries-old memorial, or see neighbors lighting candles in quiet reflection. Whether you step inside for architecture, music, or a moment of calm, St Mary Abbots feels timeless—a spiritual oasis in the heart of bustling Kensington. 

 

London’s Kensington neighborhood delivers loads of free fun, great for history buffs, families, and casual explorers alike. Lace up your trainers, bring along your curiosity, and discover the royal side of the city—without spending a thing.  

 

Enjoyed this? Check out London’s best walks, and see the quirkier side of the city.  

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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Clown fish at SEA LIFE London Aquarium. Image credit: Merlin.
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Ultimate Guide to SEA LIFE London Aquarium

Set on the ground floor of County Hall on London’s bustling South Bank, the SEA LIFE London Aquarium has been wowing wide-eyed visitors with its kaleidoscope of aquatic critters since it opened back in 1997. Penguin-waddle into our underwater world for the ultimate guide to this top-tier London attraction, including information on what to expect, when to visit, and the best ticket options in town… SEA LIFE London Aquarium: The Lowdown Attracting over a million visitors every year, the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is one of the South Bank’s most popular attractions. That’s largely thanks to its state-of-the-art aquaria, spine-tingling underwater Shark Walk tunnel, cool gentoo penguin colony, and 5,000-or-so marine creatures that range from tiny clownfish to majestic sharks, turtles, crocs, rays, and octopuses. Immersive exhibits at the aquarium mean you can get really up close and personal with these spectacular beasts of the deep. And we mean really really close – over, under, and with your inquisitive face pressed right up against the glass. Heck, there’s even a touch pool where kids young and old get the rare chance to handle sea stars, crabs and other rock pool regulars. It takes most people between one and two hours to explore the various zones of the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, but there’s no time limit on your visit, meaning kids mesmerized by staring through bubble windows at the magical underwater worlds within can do so for literally hours on end.  There are also several ranger talks on the many species here, from rays to rainforest dwellers, as well as scheduled feeding times, when you can see the penguins diving for their supper or catch an unmissable piranha feeding frenzy. You can even feed the turtles and go snorkeling with the sharks! SEA LIFE London Aquarium Zones Open Oceans. The replica ribcage of a great gray whale makes for a fine habitat in the Open Oceans exhibit, where colorful purple tangs, snappers, triggerfish and other tropical critters flash brilliantly across the bleached bones. The essential highlight of this zone is the glass tunnel that passes beneath the huge tank, promising tantalizing glimpses of green sea turtles and huge southern stingrays soaring overhead. This is also where you can spot sharks – or head up a level to get an aerial view of these majestic creatures of the deep. Coral Kingdom. Experience a kaleidoscope of color at the UK’s largest living coral reef, an awesome underwater oasis that extends some 40 feet and teems with clownfish, seahorses, angelfish, butterflyfish, pufferfish, regal blue and yellow tangs, and other reef dwellers. Take the clownfish challenge as you yourself get the opportunity to bob, weave and shuffle your way through a simulated reef environment. Polar Adventure. Slip and slide your way to one of SEA LIFE London Aquarium’s most popular zones to meet the resident colony of playful gentoo penguins. These cute little blighters, with their distinctive white ‘headbands’ and bright orange bills are a joy to observe as they swim, splash, socialize and snooze their way around their icy environment. State-of-the-art 3D and augmented reality technology also brings giant polar bears and orca whales to life in this thrilling Antarctic adventure. Rainforest Adventure. Adventure of an altogether different kind awaits in the aquarium’s Amazonian rainforest, where tropical temperatures support life for a fantastical array of exotic animals. This one’s for the creepy crawly connoisseur, the reptile rhapsodizer, the frog fanatic. For here’s where you can meet some of the planet’s most fearsome beasts, among them the poison dart frog, the West African dwarf crocodile, the Chilean rose tarantula, he UK’s largest collection of piranhas, and a snapping turtle named Bowza! Ocean Invaders. Mesmerizing and dreamlike in their slow, languid movements, jellyfish are among the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. Brainless and composed of more than 95% water, these amazing animals have been present in our seas for some 500 million years – even longer than our most ancient reptiles! Step into the Ocean Invaders zone to observe several species in all their graceful glory, including the translucent, bell-shaped moon jellyfish, the fearsome looking (and sounding!) Japanese sea nettle, and the more self-explanatory upside-down jellyfish. SEA LIFE London Aquarium: When to Visit Opening hours vary throughout the year but are generally around 10AM–5PM in the cooler months, increasing to 9.30AM–7PM in summer and during school holidays., and last entry is an hour before closing time. Check the official SEA LIFE London Aquarium website for opening hours on the specific dates you want to visit. You’ll need to book a time slot for entry during peak times (weekends, school holidays and public holidays). If you fancy a less crowded experience, pop by on weekdays towards the beginning or end of the day, when advance booking is rarely required and the tourist crowds are relatively minimal.  SEA LIFE London Aquarium: Tickets One of the best money-saving ways to experience the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is with an Explorer attraction pass from Go City. You can save up to 50% with the pass, which gives you 60 days to experience up to seven London tours, activities and attractions. Entry to the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is included with the pass, as are bucket-list big-hitters including the London Eye, Up at the O2, the London Bridge Experience, Westminster Abbey, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, London Zoo, The View from The Shard, and many more. You can also book direct via the SEA LIFE London Aquarium website, where options include multi-attraction tickets and VIP experiences with the penguins, sharks and turtles. Closest Transport Links to SEA LIFE London Aquarium SEA LIFE London Aquarium is a short stroll from Waterloo station, as well as Charing Cross and Westminster Underground station just across the river. After emerging from any of these, simply head towards the London Eye and you won’t go too far wrong! Save on London Tours, Activities and Attractions Save on admission to 100+ London attractions with an Explorer or All-Inclusive pass from Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
teens in a london park
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Unmissable London Fun for Families with Teens

When it comes to family trips, traveling with a teenager (or two… or three) can be a high-stakes balancing act. You want days packed with memories and wow moments they’ll still be talking about next year—not just a perfectly grumpy gallery of “meh” faces on your camera roll. The good news? London delivers the goods. Whether your crew’s craving daring heights, Insta-worthy eats, legendary football stadiums, or art that goes lightyears beyond the ordinary, this city has you covered. Prepare for a whirlwind of adventure, a dash of culture, and so many chances for those genuine “this is awesome!” moments—no family bribes required. Ready to plan a trip that’ll wow even the toughest teen critic? Here’s our list of the coolest things to do in London with teens.  Our top picks for things to do with teens in London:  Up at the O2  London Eye  Moco Museum  Wembley Stadium Tour  Crazy Golf at Swingers West End  Camden Market  City Cruises: Thames River Pass  Wicked The Musical  London Bicycle Tour by The London Bicycle Tour Company  Chocolate Cocktail Club  Up at the O2: Climb to New Heights  If your crew has a taste for thrill (or a knack for eye-popping selfies), you can’t beat Up at the O2. Here’s your chance to scale the roof of one of London’s most distinctive landmarks—safely harnessed in and with friendly guides, of course. You suit up in climbing gear, clip onto the walkway, and then it’s game on: an unforgettable ascent up the domed roof with the lights of London all around you.  The vibe? Pure adventure with a backdrop of city skyline, Olympic Park, winding Thames, and Canary Wharf’s modern towers. Whether you’re racing your teens to the summit or taking a chill pace, the 360-degree views at the top are absolutely worth the climb—especially at sunset, when the city glows below. Teens will love the sense of challenge (and the bragging rights that come with it). Even the most social media-shy can’t resist snapping skyline selfies up here. And if someone’s a little nervous, the crew is there to keep things encouraging and safe—no pressure, just loads of fun. It’s active, upbeat, and a million miles from your average tourist experience.  Moco Museum: Urban Art with an Edge  Let’s be real: not every art museum wins over a teenage crowd. The Moco Museum isn’t just an exception—it’s the gold standard for capturing cool. This powerhouse of contemporary and street art is housed in a grand townhouse in Mayfair, making the edgy art feel even more out of place (in a great way).  Here, you’ll spot original pieces by Banksy, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Keith Haring—names that light up pop culture feeds as much as art history textbooks. Funky installations, neon signs, and immersive rooms mean there’s something surprising around every corner. Teens can get up close with art that feels dynamic, subversive, and interactive—not the usual ‘do-not-touch’ gallery vibe.  What makes it especially awesome? The museum celebrates creativity and social commentary, so there are always new conversations to have as you wander. Whether your teen is into urban culture, design, or just likes snapping quirky photos, Moco Museum hits the mark. After you’ve checked out the art, Hyde Park isn’t far away for a stroll or impromptu skate session.  Wembley Stadium Tour: Football Royalty  If your teenagers are obsessed with football, Wembley Stadium isn’t just a venue—it’s Holy Ground. This is where legends play, from England’s national team to top musicians (Beyoncé, BTS, Ed Sheeran, and more). The behind-the-scenes tour is packed with surprises. Start by walking out the Players Tunnel, just like you’ve seen on TV, imagining the roar of the crowd.  You’ll peer into the players’ locker rooms, visit the Royal Box (selfies with a replica FA Cup, anyone?), sit in commentary booths, and get a peek at match-day routines. What makes the tour fun for non-sports fans? The stories and trivia: crazy headlines, childhood dreams come true, records shattered, and celebrations that rocked the nation. Even if you’re only mildly footy-mad, the energy of the stadium gets to you.  Guides are nothing if not passionate, and there are plenty of interactive displays and photo ops along the way. For a bonus, grab lunch or snacks at Boxpark Wembley—super close by and loaded with global street food vendors.  Crazy Golf at Swingers West End: Next-Level Mini Golf  Ready for a little friendly competition? Crazy Golf at Swingers West End takes mini golf to new places—think neon-lit courses, quirky obstacles, and a party atmosphere. It’s mini golf, but with wild London themes, fun music, super creative cocktails for the adults, and gourmet street food from pop-up stalls.  What do teens love most? The playful but competitive mood. You can challenge your teenager to wild trick shots, ricochet through London-inspired challenges (phone box obstacles, anyone?), and land some ridiculous hole-in-ones. It’s energetic, silly, and low-pressure—everyone’s cheering each other on… and maybe trash-talking just a bit for laughs. Order pizza or tacos in between rounds and it feels like an urban festival—especially at night when the lights are glowing, the playlist hits just right, and London’s creative crowd drops in. Reserve ahead for weekends, because it’s always buzzing with energy and laughter.  Camden Market: Shop, Eat, and Soak Up Edgy London  If you want to show teens the side of London that feels truly ‘them’, Camden Market is the ultimate destination. Part outdoor market, part street food heaven, part alt-culture playground, Camden is bursting with creative energy. Here you’ll find an endless mix of pop-up stalls selling vintage hoodies, comic books, retro jewelry, and hand-painted sneakers. The crowd is as colorful as the murals—punks, goths, students, tourists, and everyone in-between.  The food choices are legendary. Asian fusion, Venezuelan arepas, curly fries, vegan burgers, build-your-own bubble tea—you name it, Camden’s got a vendor making it fresh. Grab lunch, wander the canal, check out the record shops, and dive into curious little boutiques crammed with pop culture finds.  Don’t miss Cyberdog, glowing with its rave wear and robots, and if you want a music fix, the old stables now house gig venues pumping out live tunes most evenings. For families with teens, Camden is freedom—safe to roam, fun to discover, barely a tourist trap in sight, and always a conversation starter. If you want another nearby adventure, the London Zoo in Regent’s Park is a 15-minute stroll (and just as lively).  Wicked The Musical: An Age-Appropriate Night Out  Thinking “theater” may sound like a stretch for teens? Wait until they see Wicked. This West End hit is one of the world’s best-loved musicals because it’s anything but predictable: there are flying witches, high-flying solos, magical sets, and themes that strike a chord with everyone (friendship, loyalty, being true to yourself).  The Apollo Victoria Theatre is big and buzzy, so the atmosphere is electric, even before the curtain rises. Once the show starts, it’s nonstop spectacle—the set changes are jaw-dropping, the songs are memorable, and the story reimagines the Wizard of Oz from the witches’ perspective. Even teens who aren’t “musical” fans walk out raving about the drama, humor, and clever plot twists (and humming “Defying Gravity” for weeks).  If you want to make the evening even more special, pair it with pre-show eats nearby—Tozi offers tasty Italian small plates and a cool vibe, or treat your group to shakes and burgers at Five Guys down the road.  London Bicycle Tour by The London Bicycle Tour Company: Pedal Through the Past and Present  Who says sightseeing has to be done on foot? A guided London bike tour puts the wind in your hair and brings you right into the middle of the city’s action. Start at Lambeth, gear up, and join a small group led by a lively, local guide who knows every backstreet, shortcut, and scenic stop along the way.  On two wheels, you’ll cover more ground and actually feel connected to the neighborhoods around you. Routes often weave through music-filled South Bank, the leafy lanes of Westminster, and hidden pockets of East End graffiti where you’ll discover some of London’s coolest street art. Your guide points out filming locations, shares wild stories about kings and criminals, and makes sure the whole crew sticks together—perfect for teens who thrive on new discoveries and urban adventure.  The pace is friendly; there are lots of stops for snacks, photos, and local insights. By tour’s end, you’ll feel like you’ve seen “real” London (and burned off enough calories to justify another round of dessert later).  Chocolate Cocktail Club: Sweets Meet Sips in a Grown-Up Setting  This is not your childhood chocolate shop. The Chocolate Cocktail Club (just off Farringdon) is a dreamy spot where desserts are reimagined as cool drinks—picture milk chocolate martinis, creamy mocktails, and creative concoctions that adults and over-16s can sample. It’s a fun, offbeat pick for older teens looking for something a little more sophisticated, especially if your group appreciates an Instagrammable moment.  The setting is relaxed and quirky, with velvet sofas, neon signs, and chocolate in every possible form, from truffles to cakes. We love the playful “liquid desserts” menu and mischievous seasonal specials, from salted caramel cocktails to tiramisu-inspired mocktails. Pair it with gooey brownies or a slice of rich chocolate tart (yes, sharing is required).  It’s a sweet, social hour in a unique spot—perfect for post-museum morale boosts or as a reward after a day conquered together in the city.    Whether your teens are sports fans, adventure seekers, aspiring artists, night owls, music buffs, or top-tier snackers, London’s got attractions and activities guaranteed to turn your trip into travel legend. The city blends old-school cool with a modern, youthful edge—just the thing to impress even the hardest-to-please teenagers and keep the whole family entertained.    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Sea Life, and browse our London Eye deep dive.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 
A couple walk past Tower Bridge in London in April
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One week in London: your ultimate itinerary

London isn’t just a list of landmarks to tick off but a living entity which has been constantly evolving for over 2000 years. Hugely diverse in origin, Londoners shop, work and worship amidst world-beating attractions. Spend enough time in the capital, and you’ll realize that behind their frosty exterior most of London’s nine million people are also a friendly – if modest – bunch worth taking the time to get to know properly. A week in London it is then! Plan it well and a London 7 day itinerary can provide you with a view of the British capital it’s not possible to get with a two or three day visit. As Samuel Johnson once said, when you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life. Your first day in London With your camera battery fully charged and SD cards empty, ease yourself into the next 7 days in London at Piccadilly Circus. At the junction between the thoroughfare simply known as Piccadilly and Regent Street, it’s a spot that has spun with black cabs, red double decker buses and advertising hoardings for decades, with the Statue of Eros acting as the starting point for countless romances. Piccadilly has its fair share of famous storefronts should you want to start the souvenir shopping early, with Fortnum & Mason as evocative of time in London as afternoon tea at The Ritz a few doors down. Spend the rest of the day taking in the views of Buckingham Palace from the roof of Wellington Arch – once home to London’s smallest police station – and admiring the collections of Apsley House. Also known as No 1 London, it was the home of the Duke of Wellington, victor over Napoleon. A day by the river The views at the Tower of London extend back close to 1000 years. A fortification built by William the Conqueror around 1066 which became a prison to Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes and The Kray twins, the tower is now best known for its ravens, yeomen wardens (beefeaters) and crown jewels. Together they provide an unforgettable morning of heritage, wit and bling. Cross the Thames by Tower Bridge to reach the south side of the river. Opening on average three times a day, with a week in London you can afford to hang around the area for a while just in case, perhaps taking in HMS Belfast at the same time. With nine decks to explore, it’s one of the most detailed displays of life in the navy during peace and war time you’ll encounter. End the day looking down on London from The View from The Shard. Western Europe’s tallest building, The Shard’s observation floors stand 250 meters above the riverside, providing panoramas capable of transporting you 40 miles in any direction. The bar makes an extra-special spot from which to enjoy London’s sunsets too. The rainy day The weather in London is fickle enough that you could experience a rainy day at any time of year. But don’t worry, there’s plenty indoors that will keep you busy without them feeling like second-rate options. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum are located side by side in Kensington, though with such extensive collections you’re better off sticking to the one that interests you most. Whilst the first two museums are relatively self-explanatory, the Victoria and Albert Museum name doesn’t give much away. Funded by the profits of Hyde Park’s 1851 Great Exhibition, it concentrates on the decorative arts, from ceramics to tapestries and jewelry. The site of performances throughout the year, the Royal Albert Hall really comes into its own in August and September, when it welcomes the Proms. But even when there’s no scheduled performance you can still take in its main auditorium with a behind the scenes tour. Span a millennium in a day For a trip beneath the world’s oceans without the price tag to match, start the fourth day of your London week itinerary at SEA LIFE Center London Aquarium. As well as a coral reef and a shark tunnel, visitors are able to watch the antics of a small colony of penguins. Just outside, the steady rotation of the London Eye has become an irresistible part of anyone’s London experience. The world’s first cantilever Ferris wheel – supported on just one side – its location means it provides some of the clearest views of the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey beyond. With origins predating the Norman Conquest of 1066, the abbey has witnessed some of the most important events in British history, from the coronation of over 40 kings and queens, to royal marriages, memorials to national treasures and the burial of the unknown soldier at the end of the First World War. Royal brides continue to place their bouquet on its black marble surface in honor of the fallen. Spend a day at Kew The list of public green spaces that were once the private property of the British monarch extends to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. A cherished part of west London, the gardens have gained international recognition through their UNESCO World Heritage status and continuing work to save botany’s rarest plants from extinction. Nor does it matter when you plan to visit London, since Kew provides all-year color and interest. Spring sees tulips, daffodils and cherry blossom take centerstage, before the summer months present its follies – including a ten story Chinese pagoda – in all their glory. Fall sees Kew’s 14,000 trees from around the world turn stunning shades of sunset whilst even the winter isn’t lacking in attractions thanks to its multiple glasshouses and February orchid festival. So slip on a good pair of walking shoes and discover for yourself what Kew is all about! A day in the City of London Begin Day 6 of your odyssey at the northern end of London Bridge. Once the only crossing over the Thames in the city, the current version dates from the 1960s and is a little underwhelming compared to London’s other crossings – but does have clear views towards Tower Bridge and The Shard. Head north from the city of London into the City of London – which has its own police force and ancient ways though not much over two kilometers square – for one of London’s quirkier attractions – The Monument. Located on an easy-to-miss side street, it commemorates the Great Fire of 1666, reputed to have started in Pudding Lane opposite. The ‘new’ St Paul’s Cathedral rose from the ashes of the fire. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, its sightlines are protected by law and its interior considered one of architecture's greatest achievements. End your day in and around the Museum of London, which tells the story of the capital from the time of the mammoths to the latest archeological discoveries. A day of live performances Make sure you haven’t missed anything by spending the morning enjoying the commentary and day ticket opportunities of a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour through the heart of the capital. Follow this up with a matinee performance at one of the West End’s top theaters, where dramas, musicals and comedies switch between coming from and going to New York’s Broadway and attract big names in television and cinema to their stages. On a bright summer night the open-air amphitheater forming Regent’s Park Theater ensures each show is unique, whilst an afternoon at ZSL London Zoo provides another type of entertainment. Its 750 species, from aardvarks to zebra, never fail to charm. A week in London with Go City Capture the essence of the living and breathing British capital with one week in London. Its range of attractions are extensive, but that doesn’t mean you have to watch your bank balance drain. Travel with Go City to take advantage of massive savings on admission to many top attractions!
Ian Packham

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