From the Olympics to the iconic Royal wedding, London has had its fair share of big events over the last couple of years. But even with the spot light fading, London is still one of the most exciting cities, full of diverse culture and interesting museums and attractions.
Visitlondon.com have listed the top 10 attractions in London which give you an opportunity to soak up some culture whether this is modern art or a bit of history. The list is based on the order of popularity on the latest available visitor numbers. Some even make our list of best free attractions in London, so you can save yourself a few pennies.
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Most Popular London Attractions
British Museum
The British Museum is a museum with over 8 million pieces of work dedicated to human history and culture. As well as Parthenon sculptures and mummies of ancient Egypt there are various other pieces originating from all continents and depicting human culture from the beginning to present day. Entry is free and the museum is open daily with facilities for eating and activities specifically for children.
Tate Modern
The Tate modern is the most visited modern art gallery in the world and is found on the banks of the Thames. The museum holds the national collection of British art from 1500 to present day, and international and contemporary art. There are also temporary exhibitions by top British artists and fabulous gallery restaurants with views across the city. Again entry is free with plenty of games for children.
National Gallery
The National Gallery is an art museum on Trafalgar Square, which houses over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900. This includes pieces such as Van Gogh, da Vinci, Botticelli, Constable and Renoir. Entry is free and again there are a number of eateries and family friendly activities available.
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum exhibits a vast range of specimens from varying stages of natural history. As well as the permanent dinosaur exhibition and some of the rarest animals in the world, in 2014 they will be introducing ‘one million years of the human story’.
Entry is free but some of the special exhibitions require tickets. There are a number of eating venues and plenty of activities for the kids.
London Eye
The London Eye is a spectacular giant ferris wheel on the South Bank of the river Thames. With stunning views of the London skyline you have the opportunity to see more than 55 of Londons famous landmarks.
The ride takes around 30 minutes, with online discounts available. They also provide the opportunity to buy special passes if you want something more romantic; such as the London Eye experience for two. For more information please click here.
Science Museum
The Science Museum gives you the chance to see, touch and experience scientific advances of the last 300 years. Entry to the attraction is free but there are additional charges to specialist exhibitions. There are a number of eateries and activities for children.
Victoria and Albert Museum
The V&A celebrates art and design with 3,000 years worth of amazing artefacts from around the world. It currently houses over 4.5 million objects with such a variety that we’re sure you’ll find something of interest. Again entry is free but special exhibitions require tickets and there are plenty of eateries available.
Madame Tussauds
One of the most famous attractions in the world with a British twist. You’ll come face-to-face with some of the world’s most famous faces. From Shakespeare to Lady Gaga you’ll meet influential figures from showbiz, sport, politics and even Royalty. For more information on prices and venue information please click here.
Royal Museums Greenwich
The Royal Museum is the leading maritime museum in Britain, where you can explore a variety of exhibitions, steer a ship into port and fire a cannon at a dastardly pirate ship. There are plenty of eateries available, and for ticket prices and information please click here.
Tower of London
With 900 years of history and based in a breathtaking building discover the Tower of London including, the palace, prison and executions. One of the most popular attractions are the Crown Jewels. For more information about this attraction and entry prices please click here.
Alternative London Attractions
There are literally hundreds of attractions in London, so we couldn’t possibly list them all here. But we do have a few quirky alternatives that we think you may find interesting; especially if you’re a little fed up of historic sights stuffy musuems.
- View from the Shard
- London Ice Bar
- Harry Potter Studio Tour
- O2 Arena Bungee Jump
- 737 Flight Simulator
- $8,000 Cocktail
Obviously the last one on the list isn’t for the faint hearted, but the rest of them should make for an interesting trip to London.