4 days in London: must-see experiences for every explorer

Explore everything astronomy at the Royal Observatory Greenwich. You’ll see where east meets west, discover how the seas and the stars were first mapped out by scientific pioneers, and explore the historic home of the first Astronomer Royal.One of the most important historical scientific sites in the world, the Royal Observatory Greenwich, offers an educational and entertaining visit back in time. There’s a host of things to see in this fascinating museum, learn how time was standardized, how the first telescope was made, and how science and astronomy have changed through the ages. You’ll also get to explore legendary inventions such as the UK’s largest refracting telescope and get hands-on with a 4.5 billion-year-old asteroid.And while you’re there, don’t forget to take in one of the best views in the city outside of the Observatory.

Explore Greenwich’s Cutty Sark, the last surviving tea clipper in the world.Part of the Royal Museums Greenwich, the Cutty Sark is a historic sailing ship that was once the fastest and greatest of her time. You’ll discover what life was like onboard the ship, touch a piece of world history, and learn about this striking vessel. A truly immersive experience, multi-sensory interactive displays will bring the ship to life with sights, smells and sounds of what life at sea would have been like.The Cutty Sark was built in Scotland in 1869 and designed to carry tea from China to England in record-time. In her heyday, the ship circumnavigated the globe and visited every major port around the world.Since being preserved as a museum ship, the Cutty Sark has been raised above the ground, allowing you to walk underneath the hull while touching the original planks and iron framework.Board the clipper and discover the sailors’ quarters and the ship’s wheel, meet famous Cutty Sark characters and learn about their incredible stories while enjoying beautiful views up and down the Thames.Be sure to pop by the Even Keel Café, located directly underneath the ship’s hull, for Cutty Sark-inspired cup of tea, Clipper Lunch or book in for an indulgent and traditional Afternoon Tea complete with scones and cakes.

Easily one of London’s most recognizable buildings, St Paul’s Cathedral has played a major role in the city’s history.You’ll recognise St Paul’s Cathedral instantly thanks to the stunning dome that dominates the London skyline. It’s not just striking on the outside – explore a visually impressive interior too that’s filled with mystery and wonder. Think whispering walls, a frescoed ceiling and unique effigies of former kings and queens.With a visit to St Paul’s, you’ll learn all about its unique history and the famous weddings that have taken place there, including Prince Charles and Diana’s back in 1981. Want to hear hymns too? Then catch choral evensong, taking place at 5PM on most weekdays and hear St Paul’s acoustics put to the test.

Set in leafy Regent’s Park amid heritage-listed buildings and beautiful gardens, London Zoo is an oasis in the heart of the capital with over 10,000 amazing animals to discover.The Zoo’s biggest experience, Land of the Lions, gives visitors the chance to get closer than ever before to the mighty Asiatic lions – of which only 400 remain in the wild. Visitors can explore walkways covering the 2,500 square meter Indian-themed exhibit.Come face-to-face with one of nature’s most awesome predators in Tiger Territory, learn about the natural behaviors of Sumatran tigers and discover the conservation issues these creatures face in the wild.Go on a journey high into the treetops to meet a variety of amazing species at Rainforest Life (London’s only living rainforest). Then meet the creatures who only come out in the dark in the amazing nocturnal experience, Night Life.Visitors will love heading down to the beach to watch our colony of Humboldt penguins dive, swim, frolic and feed in England’s largest penguin pool, complete with large underwater viewing windows. And step Into Africa to observe the elegance and grace of the giraffes before moving on to the magnificent residents of Gorilla Kingdom.

As one of central London’s royal residences, Kensington Palace has been a home and refuge to the royal family since the 17th century. Now, it is the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales. Built in 1605, it has roots in Jacobean architecture and was first known as Nottingham House. William III and Mary II were crowned jointly in 1689, and were instrumental in transforming Nottingham House into Kensington Palace.When Queen Mary died from smallpox in 1694, William was overcome with grief. Despite this he finished the building with a grand gallery at the south of the Palace, enlarging Sir Christopher Wren’s original plan. Now it is one of London’s most exquisite palaces and comes with acres of manicured gardens and the world-famous Orangery.Once you’ve seen all there is to see inside, take a wander around the 30-acres of Palace Garden and explore this oasis right in the heart of the capital. Check out the sunken garden which is home to impressive floral displays all year round. The palace also hosts an ever-changing array of exhibitions, so be sure to check out the website before you go to make the most of your visit.

Step into an immersive, cutting-edge art experience and journey through some of the greatest works of art, brought to life in breathtaking new ways.You’ll see jaw-dropping, immersive interpretations of iconic art pieces, accompanied by a stirring soundtrack, to bring each celebrated masterpiece to life. Travel through four themed galleries and enjoy the work of world-famous artists including Van Gogh, Monet, Dali, Rembrandt, Kandisky and many more. A must-do for art lovers visiting London.

Sit back, relax, and take in the views of London with a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour. Tick off Central London’s top attractions and get to know the city a little better.