Big Ben and Parliament

Explore London

History, museums and neighbourhoods. Plan around your interests.

Royal history, painting collections and riverside culture give London several distinct starting points. Choose your priorities among Westminster, the Tower of London and the National Gallery, then plan park breaks and time on the South Bank.

Famous places worth seeing

Choose a starting point for your interests.

Big Ben and Parliament
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History

Big Ben and Parliament

See Elizabeth Tower and the architecture of Parliament beside the Thames. Treat exterior viewpoints and an interior tour as separate visit options.

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History

Tower of London

Add the Tower of London to your history shortlist for its fortress, palace and prison past. The Crown Jewels are a collection highlight.

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Museums

National Gallery

Focus on painting at the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. Check the current floorplan if a particular artwork is your reason for visiting.

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Outdoors

St James’s Park

Choose St James’s Park for lakeside paths and views around The Mall. Add a park break between your historical sightseeing stops.

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Explore the neighbourhoods

South Bank

South Bank brings together cultural venues, riverside walking and places to eat. Check scheduled events and individual dining stops before building your day.

Explore the neighbourhood

Complete your city plan

Plan journeys between areas

Use TfL Journey Planner for your start and destination. Compare walking and step-free options for your needs rather than assuming a fixed journey time.

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Elizabeth Tower, the Houses of Parliament and the Thames waterfront in London

First Time in London: Choose Architecture, Painting or the Thames

Choose a main focus among Westminster, the National Gallery and the South Bank, then consider the Tower, a park break and transport around your needs.

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