Summer is fast approaching and with it come thoughts of holidays and days out with friends and family. It’s a big world out there though. Where do you start when it comes to planning a trip? With so much to do in our own capital city, a staycation, day or weekend trip in London would be our first plan. It’s a timeless and ever-changing city so whether you have been here before or this is your first time, there will be something new to see or different to do. Here are our top 8 attractions to get you planning.
Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard
Royalist or not, Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard are a spectacle and tradition well worth seeing. There is an option for a tour of Buckingham Palace if you choose, but it does come at a cost. If you do opt for it you will get to see the extravaganza of the State Rooms and the beautiful gardens. This year also sees the 200th anniversary of the birth of Queen Victoria, with a special exhibition celebrating her life opening on July 29th.
Tower of London and Tower Bridge
It may not be a prison any more, but the Tower of London still has a way of invoking awe even if only to marvel at its 900-year history. The black ravens are still there, as are the Yeoman Warders in their spectacular headgear, and you can work the travellator to see the crown jewels. Finish off with a stroll over Tower Bridge and if you time it right you may even get to see the bridge opening to let ships through.
Southbank
Once you have crossed over to the south side, take a stroll along the Southbank. Marvel at the old cobblestone streets, stop off for a snack or lunch and watch the boats sail up and down the River Thames.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Take a detour over the Millennium Bridge (affectionately known as the Wobbly Bridge amongst Londoners) to cross the river and head straight to St Paul’s Cathedral. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London, the cathedral sits on top of the site of a Roman temple. If you’re feeling energetic, you can take a walk up the stairs to the top of the dome, taking in the Whispering Gallery on the way.
Houses of Parliament
Continue your stroll along the north bank until you get to the Houses of Parliament. While Big Ben – or Elizabeth Tower to give it its proper name – may be closed for renovations, you can still take a tour of the Houses and find out where and how the country’s laws are made and passed.
London Eye
Have a break and take in a bird’s eye view of the city with a ride on the London Eye. This fills up fast so you may want to book in advance during busy times to avoid some of the queues.
Museums
A trip to London wouldn’t be complete with a visit to at least one museum. There are so many to choose from though that we have a hard time picking just one or two. Kids love the Natural History and Science museums while adults enjoy the history of the British Museum. Others include the London Museum – perhaps our favourite with a full recreation of Victorian London – the Tate (both Modern and British), and the list goes on… A van comes in handy here as they are spread across the capital although it’s pretty easy to get around and there are plenty of parking options as well.
London Parks
London’s parks are as numerous and spectacular as its museums. Choose from Hyde Park, Green Park, St James’s Park or Regent’s Park to name the biggest and best known. Pack a picnic in your van for lunch in the park or simply stroll through to finish off your tour of London in style.
Need a van for your visit or your next vacation? That’s what CVS Van Hire is here for. All our vans comply with London’s strict air quality standards so all you have to worry about is finding the right one for you. Call us on 020 8003 2785 to book yours today.
