Do you still not have any plans to go on holiday this year? Would you like to enjoy some cultural and entertaining family holidays? Then hurry and organise a trip to London so you can take advantage of the major sport event of the year, the London 2012 Olympics, whilst taking a look around this fabulous city. London, the dynamic UK capital, boasts an incredible cultural diversity. It comprises one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world with 20 million visitors having made their way to the British capital last year.

To help you choose amongst the many things you can do in this immense city, we have prepared a little tourist guide of London detailing the 5 top tourist sites!

1.       Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most famous religious buildings in London. In was built back in the 13^th century under King Henry III, and is a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many of the country’s Kings and Queens, as well as famous names, have been buried there. In addition Westminster Abbey is home to Poet’s Corner, commemorating the famous royal poets, writers and dramatists. Finally, Westminster Abbey is where the British monarchy is traditionally crowned. To conclude, a fascinating and historical places that you definitely can’t miss out on! Where: Parliament Square, London. When: Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4.45pm. Transport: Westminster subway. Price: Adults £10, and students and children £7.

2.       Palace of Westminster and Big Ben

The Palace of Westminster, or Houses of Parliament, comprises the meeting place of the two houses of Parliament, the House of Lords and the House of Commons.  Thus, you can feel like Queen Elizabeth II for a day and open parliament, or sit behind the Prime Minister’s chair. You will even get the chance to see Charles I’s execution order signed by Oliver Cromwell. One of the most famous parts of Westminster is, of course, Big Ben. Unfortunately, Big Ben isn’t open to visitors, only British residents can climb the Clock Tower after arranging a tour with their local MP. Even so, it is a true London icon, which you definitely can’t miss out on during your stay in the British capital. Where: 2, Abbey Gardens, City of London, London. When:  Monday to Saturday 9:15 am to 4:30pm from the 27^th of July to the 1^st of September (summer opening). Then Wednesday to Saturday 9:15 am to 4:30pm from the 19^th of September to the 6^th of October. Transport: Westminster subway. Price: Adult £15, £8 students, £5 for 5 to 15 year olds and free for under 5s.

3.       Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square comprises the famous place in London commemorating the Battle of Trafalgar, the legendary sea battle between the British Royal Navy, the French Navy and the Spanish Navy. You will find Nelson’s Column there. Erected in 1843, it consists of a 4.5 metre statue of Admiral Horatio Nelson who died winning the Battle of Trafalgar. This famous Column is surrounded by four bronze lions protecting the statue. In fact, legend has it that lions were made using recycled metal of the French fleet. Where: Trafalgar Square, London. When: All year round: Transport: Charing Cross subway. Price: Free.

For those of you interested, there are tours of London on offer, taking you around the main London sites including Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square.

4.       National Gallery

The National Gallery comprises one of the most famous museums in London. Founded in 1824, it is situated on Trafalgar Square. The National Gallery houses an important collection of paintings dating as far back as the Middle-Ages to the late 19^th century. Thus, you can admire pieces by famous British painters such as William Turner, John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough. Where: Trafalgar Square, London. When: Saturday to Thursday, 10am to 6pm. Friday 10am to 9pm. Transport: Charing Cross subway. Price: Free (permanent collection).

5.       Chelsea Football Club

Football fans will be delighted to know that the famous British football team, Chelsea, offers tours of their home ground. Yes, you will get the chance to take a tour of Stamford Bridge and areas usually closed off to the public including the dressing rooms and the players’ tunnel, as well as enjoy incredible views of the stadium. A museum, tracing the history of this legendary football club, has also been opened. Where:  Chelsea Football Club, Stamford Bridge, London. When: Tours run Monday to Saturday every half hour from 10am to 3pm. Transport: Fulham Broadway subway (district line). Price: Tour & Museum: Adult £18, children (5-15 years) £12, under 5s free. Museum only: Adult £10, children (5-15 years) £18, under 5s free. Concessions and family tickets available.

London Insider

There are many fascinating tourist sites and historical attractions in London to visit. Thus, we recommend the London Pass so you can enjoy as much London culture as you want, for less. You can visit over 55 popular tourist attractions for free in the British capital with your London Pass, which comes with a free 120-page guide book, as well as enjoy special offers and discounts on eating out and shopping. Simply order your pass online and enjoy the savings!

So, now you have lots to look forward to! With so much to do, we recommend that you rent with LocalNomad London, perfectly adapted for families, so you can enjoy some London sightseeing in all the comforts of home. A local experience awaits you in our wide selection of apartments in London located by the main London attractions. Enjoy!

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