Official Language:
English
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Currency:
Pound Sterling
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Population:
Approximately 7 million people call London home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for London: There is no season when the weather is predictably wonderful.The climate in London is well known for being rainy. However, it is actually not that rainy, but rather very unstable and unreliable. So, don't listen to any weather forecasts and you will be disapointed. During winter the temparature is seldom below the freezing point. Spring tends to be a nice time to visit London because it isn't too rainy, and at times very sunny. In May, June and October, day temperatures tend to be cool, while July-September are warmer. Average temperatures run 40°F/4°C in January, 64°F/18°C in July. Though it rains more in other parts of the country, London typically gets some rainfall half the days of the year especially Autumn is officially the rainiest period in London so it may be worth avoiding a visit to London during Autumn. Take along an umbrella and sweater no matter when you go!...
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Cruise ships will typically dock near the Strait of Dover in the Isle of Sheppey or Southampton. Both ports are only a short train ride away from London.
Traveling by bus is always a good choice in London, because both residents and tourists find the bus system reliable and safe. Single day travel cards can be purchased, providing bus access in London for the entire day. These will typically cost around $5.00. For information on buses, call (888/274-8724).
The Underground System, known as? The Tube? is the most widely utilized means of transportation in London. There are ten basic lines, each with a distinctive name, so be sure and match up your destination with the proper underground line. The Tube can take you directly where you want to go within the city (09064/123400).
London is onne of the world's greatest cities and located in south-eastern England. Just at the head of the River Thames estuary, London is a melting pot of centuries and of cultures. Cruise passengers will enjoy not only its history but it's modern sites as well. Some of the more popular attractions that cruise passengers enjoy include the many museums, art galleries, theater, monuments, historic buildings, gardens, churches, and shopping options.
London's Theater District is a favorite amongst cruise passengers and all visitors to London. The Globe Theater is a replica of Shakespeare's globe, almost exactly where it stood during Elizabethan times. During the middle of a 1613 production of Henry VIII, a prop canon set the theater's thatched roof on fire resulting in the theater burning to the ground. It was replaced by a second Globe which was subsequently torn down when the Puritans closed all of London's theaters. In 1970 a reconstruction project to rebuild the Globe was undertaken. Determining the buildings structure took several years, yet eventually a new theater very near the site of the original was built. There is no better place to see your favorite Shakespeare performance. Tours of the facility are also available.
Take the London underground to Hyde Park Corner of the Marble Arch and visit , the largest park in London. Over 600 acres of flowers, lakes, and scenic vistas, Hyde Park is a wonderful spot to enjoy an afternoon picnic. In the middle of the park is a large lake perfect for rowing. Contact Hyde Park Serpentine (tel. 44/020/7262-1330) to rent a boat.
Piccadilly Circus is located at the intersection of five major thoroughfares, most notably Piccadilly and Regent streets. It is a tremendously popular gathering spot.
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Attractions |
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British Museum:
One of the most popular attractions with over 6 million visitors in the mid 90's.The British Museum (44/020/7636-1555) is the premier museum in London (and the world, for that matter) and is an extraordinary tourist attraction. Combining remarkable architecture with incredible exhibits and displays, the British Museum is a world-class establishment. It is located on Great Russell Street in Russell Square, and there are over six million items on the premises to peruse! The museum covers seven acres, and has been a great source of pride to England since the 1800?s.
Madame Tussaud's Waxworks:
This wax museum was founded by Marie Tussaud, the former art instructor for Louis XVI's sister. She created death masks for nobles who were executed during the French Revolution. Today, Madame Tussaud's is one of London's biggest tourist attractions. Experience the chance to walk amongst the famous and infamous.
The White Tower:
A display of historic armor and weaponry. The tower's basement contains the remains of a 2,000-year -old Roman well. The Crown Jewels are the highlight of this tour, the collection includes the Imperial State Crown as well as a number of older crowns. An armory museum displays battle uniforms and
weaponry from throughout the ages.
Buckingham Palace:
The royal residence dated back to the days of Queen Victoria. Visitors come to the palace for the changing of the guard. Between April and July the 45-minute ceremony takes place every day at 11:30 am. Tours of the staterooms are available during the months while the Queen spends her summers in Scotland. The Queen's Picture Gallery, on Buckingham Palace Road contains the paintings by Britain's premier artists, and pieces from around Europe.
St Paul's Cathedral:
This very large domed cathedral has stood as a British symbol of Christianity since 1710.
Trafalgar Square:
This is one of London's most recognizable landmarks. A pigeon square ithat is bordered by the National Gallery. This area was named after the Battle of Trafalgar, during the Napoleonic Wars, upon which the British navy won supremacy of the sea.
Big Ben
is not only the most impressive clock in the entire world, but it is also an historical landmark as well as an important piece of architecture. Located in Parliament Square, Big Ben is a truly amazing edifice. Its 700-pound pendulum keeps excellent time. The clock tower adjoins the Houses of Parliament, and whenever the House of Commons is in session, a light shines above the clock face.
Tower Bridge
You will get a sense of what an unbelievable work of craftsmanship and architectural genius it is. Located at Tower Hill, the Tower Bridge (44/020/7403-3761) is exquisitely ornate. The infrastructure is as complex as it is extravagant, and the Tower Bridge is by far one of the most visited bridges in the entire world.
Westminster Abbey:
For many centuries this structure has remained at the heart of British history and culture. It was the first meeting place of the House of Commons. tel. 44/020/7222-5897) is located at Broad Sanctuary SW1, and is the most famous church in Britain. A striking example of Gothic and English architecture, the abbey is where the majority of the kings and queens of Britain were crowned, and the burial spot of British royalty and notable figures throughout the centuries. It was founded in the 1066, and the church is open to the public Mondays through Fridays, 9 am to 4 pm, and Saturdays from 9 am to 2 pm.
Other attractions include Windsor Castle, Houses of Parliament, and Kensington Palace.
Shopping:
London is a shopping city! Be sure to include Harrods, the large and very well known department store. Worth the visit even if you're shopping or not. Prices are prices are high, but the experience is incomparable. Camden Market is also a popular choice with cruise passengers who will find six markets that gather in the streets of this London town. Booths offer crafts, music, clothing, leather, and jewelry. Other favorite shopping promenades are at Bond Street, Savile Row, and Piccadilly. There are plenty of unique shops located at Soho and Carnaby Street as well.
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More Information |
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Web: http://www.visitbritain.com/
Web: http://www.londonby.com/tourist/tourist.htm
The London Pass:
Unlimited entry to top 50 Museum and Monuments in & around London.
2 day Pass: US$70.00
3 day Pass: US$87.00
6 day Pass: US$120.00
Web: http://www.euroquestpass.com/products.asp#londonpass
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