The London Zoo - Visit Animals in the Heart of the City

The London Zoo is currently engaged in an effort to transform itself from a 'zoo' in typical sense to more of an eco-friendly 'Conservation resource'.  However, the London Zoo is still a wonderful way to see animals in their more or less natural habitat.  Nationally, and internationally it isn't rated as highly as Chester Zoo, where the idea and practice of 'cruelty free captivity' was developed.  Feeding time for the great apes and penguins remain a favourite among zoo visitors, and the insect house is an amazing sight as well.  It is easy to get to, located at the north end of Regent's park.  If you're thinking of taking a group trip to visit the London Zoo, coach hire can help make your trip hassle-free.  It is conveniently close to the Camden Market, Madame Tussauds and a walk along the canal.  

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is quite a spectacular tourist attraction.  It is laid out over several acres in a pleasant London suburb.  It makes a great place to visit on a sunny afternoon, but it doesn't work quite so well in foul weather.  The various greenhouses and exhibitions are spread out over the Kew Gardens grounds.  If you're planning a group trip to Kew Gardens, you might think of utilizing a coach hire service (London coach hire, Birmingham coach hire, UK coach hire) to make your trip easier!

The London Aquarium

If you love aquariums and want to see some fish while you're in London, then you should visit the aquarium in County Hall.  It has a great atmosphere and is quite beautiful.  It features Easter Island statues immersed in a multi-story pool.  Well designed, aesthetically pleasing and well constructed, the London Aquarium provides a haven from the chaos and bustle of the surrounding city -- at least, if there are no school trips to the aquarium that day!

The London Eye

The London Eye is a huge, modern version of Vienna's Prater ferris wheel.  The Eye dominates the river skyline opposite the Parliament. Previously, queues for the London Eye were horrendous, but since a new ticketing system was put in place, things have improved markedly.

You can book a whole capsule if you wish. Take a telephoto lens if you want to get a good photo of something specific from the top of the Eye - London is a VERY big city.  Our favourite natural vantage points lie at the top of Greenwich Hill. Near the Ranger's House or the Observatory there are much more atmospheric scenes as the sun slices down the city skyscrapers. Another good viewpoint is Parliament Hill, on Hampstead Heath or Primrose Hill in Regent's Park.  A spin on the London Eye and a quick trip to the surrounding area can make a nice group trip.  If you're looking to book a trip, you may want to look into a coach hire to simplify your planning.

As far as booking your ride on the London Eye, make sure there's good weather before you go up as it's a really depressing ride when it's rainy and overcast.  The Eye is usually closed for its annual maintenance at the end of January/beginning of February, so be sure to check their website.

Madame Tussaud's

Many big cities have some sort of wax museum, but Madame Tussaud's is the mother of them all. It's definitely a popular attraction - the queues, especially on the weekends, can be horrendous.  You can, however, pre-book a ticket online and walk past those waiting in line, if you wish.

Madame Tussaud's has worked hard over the years to build its reputation, and it has achieve a semi-official status among wax figure museums.  Also on the site is the planetarium, which is much like all other planetariums, but probably bigger.

Madame Tussauds is located on Marylebone Road, approximately 100 yards from Baker Street tube, and it's also close to Sherlock Holmes' fictional residence which maintains a small 'Museum'.  

If you feel fatigued after visiting Madame Tussaud's, you can go on a quick walk 400 yards north to Regent's Park and beyond to Primrose Hill, where you'll find a great view over London.  On the weekend it's also a quick and easy walk right through to Camden Market.

London Tower Bridge - A Classic London Landmark

No trip to England would be satisfying without a walk or cruise along the Thames and an up-close view of the London Tower Bridge.  Directly adjacent to the Tower of London, the London Tower Bridge harkens back, of course, to the nursery song "London Bridge is Falling Down".  Of course the actual "London Bridge" mentioned did almost fall down but was saved and gently transported and reconstructed in, of all places, Arizona.  The London Tower Bridge is a classic London landmark and a great photo opportunity.  Many like to take a cruise or group bus tour along the Thames as an opportunity to take in an expansive view of the river, the Tower of London, the London Tower Bridge and surrounding landmarks.

Windsor Castle - A Slice of Royalty

For American visitors, having the chance to see a castle that is 500 years old is a unique experience. In the United States, even the oldest buildings or sites often date only to the 18th or 19th century.  So American tourists are often awed to discover that Windsor Castle is 900 years old! It is one of the largest operating castles in the world. Windsor Castle serves as an alternate residence for the Queen and the Royal Family. But visitors are also welcomed to tour large parts of the castle and wonder at the collection of elegant art works and treasures owned by the Royal Family. Keep an eye on the horizon if you visit this favorite tourist site because at Windsor Castle you will sometimes see the flag flying. If you do, it's a sign that the Queen is currently in residence.  Wondering about transportation to reach Windsor Castle?  If you're traveling as a group, a UK coach hire service may be a good solution to simplifying your travel plans.