By Contributing Writer
London is the capital of England and has both a rich history as well as a contemporary vibe, making it a destination that will appeal to every age. Between the many museums, historical sites, shopping options, restaurants parks and landmarks, any family should be able to find of multitude of activities that will suit them all. Planning ahead and checking prices and seasonal attraction schedules will help your
family vacation go off without a hitch.
Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussaud's is a wax figure museum, featuring some of the most famous and influential characters throughout history and politics. Everyone can marvel at the amazingly lifelike features on the wax models and search for their favorite celebrity, sports star or political figure. Madame Tussaud's is constantly adding new figures so it will still be a new experience even if you have visited one of their other world locations. The exhibit is open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with an extra hour added during peak times and seasons. It is closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.
2nd Floor, Finance Department
London
NW1 5LR
Tel: +0870 4003000
www.madametussauds.com/london/
London Theater
Many think first of the theater scene when they think of London, but it is not just for grownups anymore. Young and old alike can participate in the rich theater culture that London has always been famous for. Depending on the ages of those in your family, there are many appropriate productions to entertain you. Shows are constantly changing, so be sure to check ahead of time to see what will be playing during your trip.
Polka Adventure Theater
240 The Broadway,Wimbledon,
SW19 1SB London
Tel: +44 20 8543 488
Little Angel Theater
14 Dagmar Passage,
N1 2DN London
Tel: +44 (0)20 7226 1787
Shakespeare's Globe
21 New Globe Walk
Bankside
London SE1 9DT
www.shakespeares-globe.org/
Bus Tour
The red, double-decker buses have become a visual London icon, and now your family can see the sights of the city from one through the Big Bus Tours Company. These tours have over 70 stops and will take you past all the major London landmarks. Tickets are good for 24 hours and you are allowed to hop on and hop off as you wish throughout the day whenever you want to see something more closely. There is live commentary in English as well as recorded commentary in eight other languages. Big Bus tours tickets also entitle you to a complimentary river cruise as well as several walking tour options. You also get discounts to many attractions and select restaurants in the London area. The starting point for the Big Bus tour is next to The Ritz hotel in downtown London or you can join the tour from any of their other stops as well. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, by telephone or in person at the Big Bus Information Center.
Big Bus Tours
48 Buckingham Palace Road
SW1, London
Tel: +00 44 (0)20 7233 9533
www.bigbustours.com/eng/london/default.aspx
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