Discover the Magic of London, England

By: Rebecca Sebek

Not only is London the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, it’s also a magical city. Home to the Royal Family, London is the largest urban area with a history that goes back 2,000 years. Thanks to the Romans who founded the city, it has become one of ‘the’ financial and culture capitals of the world. Cheerio!

A stop at Westminster Abbey is a must! This awesome, gothic church is the final resting place for monarchs such as Elizabeth I of England, Mary I of England, and Edward the Confessor and his wife Edith of Wessex. Buried in the poets’ corner are Geoffrey Chaucer, Rudyard Kipling, and Alfred Tennyson (1st Baron Tennyson). Jane Austen, William Shakespeare and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow are commemorated in the abbey. Writers from all over the world will be are awe struck as they walk through this section.

St. James Park is located in Westminster and is the oldest of the Royal Parks of London. A small lake lies within St. James Park and is bound by Buckingham Palace to the west. Luckily, the lake has a bridge that affords a beautiful view of Buckingham Palace. After frolicking in the park, why not walk to Buckingham Palace? Mind your step! The Changing of The Queen’s Guards may be taking place.

The Tower of London is a foreboding structure that sits on the north bank of the River Thames. The tower’s primary function was a fortress, royal palace, and prison. Many noble men and women lost their heads at the Tower of London. Thank God it’s no longer used for such barbaric acts. Not all acts committed at the Tower of London were treacherous. It also served as a zoo, treasury, public records office, and an observatory. The Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom have called the Tower of London “home” since 1303.

At least six ravens can be found at the Tower of London. Charles II ordered the removal of the ravens due to a complaint from John Flamsteed, the Royal Astronomer. But, the ravens were not removed. Charles II was told of a legend that goes something like this. “If the ravens ever leave the Tower of London, the White tower, the monarchy and the entire kingdom will fall!” Yes, England would be nameless forevermore! To hear this legend from the Yeoman Warder Ravenmaster (Yeoman Warders are also known as Beefeaters) will send chills down your spine.

London has fabulous transportation. From double-decker buses to the London Tube and taxis there is definitely no reason to rent a car–unless you are planning to venture outside of the city. You may even want to consider walking; it is an excellent way to see the city.

For people who love cosmopolitan cities, London, England will not disappoint. London’s theater district can be found in the heart of the West End. Here, you will find many cinemas, bars, clubs and restaurants including London’s Chinatown district. Ballet lovers may attend a performance by the United Kingdom’s Royal Ballet or the English National Ballet which are based in London. They perform at Royal Albert Hall, the Royal Opera House, the Coliseum and Sadler’s Wells Theatre.

For more information on London, England, please visit http://www.visitlondon.com/. To learn more about the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, please visit http://www.visitlondon.com/.