London contains numerous royal and historical sites reflecting its long political and ceremonial heritage. These locations include palaces, government buildings, churches, and monuments associated with British monarchy and national events. Many are open to the public and offer exhibitions, guided tours, and preserved architecture. Visiting these sites provides insight into the city’s institutional history and evolving role as a capital. This guide highlights notable royal and historical landmarks across London.
#1 Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament (formerly known as the Palace of Westminster) is the seat of the UK government and serves as a meeting place for both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. It lies on the north bank of the River Thames next to Westminster Abbey.
The Elizabeth Tower is more commonly referred to as Big Ben which is the name of the main bell has become an iconic landmark in London and one of the most popular visitor attractions.
Official website: https://www.parliament.uk
Google map 4.6/5
#7 Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge was built between 1886 and 1894 and spans the River Thames close to the Tower of London. The lower level can open to allow shipping through. Two horizontal walkways connect the two towers at the upper level.
It’s free to walk across the bridge on the lower level pavement but here is an entrance fee to access the towers and walkway which also has a section of glass flooring – book via website below.
Official website:
https://www.towerbridge.org.uk
Google map 4.7/5
#2 Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch in London. The palace was originally built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham and acquired by King George III in 1761. It has since been renovated and expanded to its current size, featuring 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms and 52 royal and guest bedrooms.
The palace’s state rooms are open to the public during the summer months, offering a rare glimpse into the opulent interiors and priceless art collections. The palace is also famous for the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a popular tourist attraction that takes place daily during the summer months and alternate days in winter.
Try to time your visit to see Changing the Guard, a popular free event which takes place outside Buckingham Palace on certain days from 10.45am and lasts around 45 minutes, with the actual handover taking place at 11am. Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot with a good view.
Official website: https://www.rct.uk/
Google map 4.5/5
#8 Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames. It was founded by William the Conquerer, the first Norman king of England, shortly after his coronation in 1066.
Early in its history it was used as a royal residence but later served variously as a prison, an armoury, a treasury, home to the Royal Mint and home to the Crown Jewels. You can still see the Crown Jewels today as part of a guided tour undertaken by the Yeomen Warders (Beefeaters). Tickets for access inside the castle and to the tower must be bought in advance on the official website below.
At least six ravens are kept in the Tower at all times, in accordance with the belief that if they are absent, the kingdom will fall. The birds can also be seen as part of the guided tour.
Official website:
https://www.hrp.org.uk
Google map 4.6/5 – Located on the north bank of the River Thames adjacent to Tower Bridge
#3 Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is a public square in the very heart of central London. At its centre is the 52 m high Nelson’s Column bearing the statue of Admiral Horatio Nelson commemorating his victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. This was a British naval victory over Napoleon’s combined French and Spanish fleet that took place on 21 October 1805 during the off the coast of Cape Trafalgar, Cadiz in Spain.
When visiting central London for the first time Trafalgar Square is a great place to start. The National Gallery (free entry) lies on the north side. If you stand on the roundabout on the southern side and look south you can see along Whitehall to the clock tower of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. If you look southwest you’ll see Admiralty Arch and The Mall which leads you past St James’ Park to Buckingham Palace.
Official website: https://www.london.gov.uk
Google map 4.6/5
#14 London Eye
The London Eye is an observation wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames (opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament). When it opened to the public in 2000 the 135m high structure was the largest observation wheel in the world. It still remains the largest in Europe but currently only the 5th largest in the world (Ain Dubai in the UAE is the tallest at 250m)
Official website: https://www.londoneye.com
Google map 4.5/5 – Located on the south bank of the River Thames just across Westminster Bridge from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
#30 Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is a famous road junction and public space in London’s West End, known for its iconic neon advertisements, the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, and the statue of Eros. It connects major streets such as Regent Street, Piccadilly, and Shaftesbury Avenue, making it a bustling hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Piccadilly Circus is a popular meeting point for both Londoners and tourists, and its proximity to numerous theatres, galleries, and attractions makes it a vibrant and essential part of the city’s cultural landscape.
Google map 4.5/5 (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
#53 Millennium Bridge
Millennium Bridge is a steel suspension footbridge that spans the River Thames, connecting the City of London with Bankside. Opened in 2000, it was designed by architect Sir Norman Foster, sculptor Sir Anthony Caro, and engineering firm Arup. The bridge’s sleek, modern design and unique “blade of light” appearance make it a striking addition to the city’s skyline. It offers pedestrians unparalleled views of nearby landmarks, such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tate Modern, and the Globe Theatre, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.
Google map 4.6/5
#60 Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace is a historic royal residence situated within Kensington Gardens in London. It has been home to many members of the British Royal Family, including Queen Victoria, Princess Diana, and currently the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The palace features a mix of architectural styles and houses several public exhibitions, including the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments and the Victoria Revealed exhibition. Visitors can explore the palace’s history and its beautifully landscaped gardens.
Official website: https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/
Google map 4.5/5
#60 The Royal Opera House
Google map 4.8/5
Highgate Cemetery
Google map 4.6/5
St. James’s Palace
Google map 4.5/5