Things to See in London

Tower Bridge, Flickr, Anirudh Koul

Everyone assumes that it is the London Bridge that is the ornate one, but it's actually the Tower Bridge. London's Tower Bridge was built in 1886 to allow tall ships to pass underneath, and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.

Tower of London, Flickr, Nick

The Tower of London has an eerie Traitors' Gate that was used as an entranceway for prisoners who came by boat. William the Conqueror completed building this fortress in 1100 to guard London's entrance from the Thames Estuary. The Crown Jewels are housed in the tower and are on display for all to see. The jewels are protected by guards known as "Beefeaters" who still wear Tudor clothing.

Buckingham Palace, Flickr, Rich Lewis

No trip to London is complete without a visit to the Queen's house. Buckingham Palace opened to visitors for the first time in 1993 to cover the cost of repairs caused by a fire. The palace tour is most popular during the summer and takes guests everywhere except into the royal family's apartments. One of the most distinguishing things about Buckingham Palace is what occurs outside: the changing of the guards. Guards wear red tunics and bearskin hats as they march down the Mall for 30 minutes.

Westminster Abbey, Flick, Matt1962

Britain's monarchs have been buried in Westminster Abbey for more than 800 years. The church is where coronations and royal weddings take place, but it is open to visitors when ceremonies are not taking place. Westminster Abbey's style is French gothic and half of it is dedicated entirely as a museum.

Hyde Park, Flickr, Martin-James

Perhaps Britain's most famous park, Hyde Park, is the equivalent of Central Park in New York City. It is a popular destination for runners, roller bladders and dog walkers alike. Hyde Park has benches throughout, a man-made lake called the Serpentine for boating and swimming, and there's even a Speaker's Corner that allows the public to vocalize whatever they wish.

Oxford Street, Flickr, Kaustav Bhattacharya

Shopping is plentiful in London, but the most popular street to find just about everything is Oxford Street. During the holidays, Oxford Street is lit with Christmas decorations, and the streets are often blocked off to cars so pedestrians can get around more easily. Department stores like Selfridge's and John Lewis, mini shopping malls, markets, street vendors and restaurants make up one of the most popular roads in London. It's also is a great place to people watch.