attractions

8 top sites

activity level

low

distance

3.6 km | 2.2 mi

Ok, but how do we get to the starting point? While taxis are available globally, most have us now rely on the convenience of ridesharing apps like Uber, Lyft, Bolt, etc. Since this is updated frequently, best to confirm options before your trip.

Are we geography alumni or GIS technologists? No, but we are travel aficionados and now, mapping experts. How we got here is by exploring, leaving no stone unturned, even getting it wrong from time to time, so that you don’t. 

What’s up with the ratings?
No, this isn’t our opinion — afterall, we hardly know eachother.

All ratings are courtesy of Tripadvisor.

london day two

We booked a cruise on the Celebrity Apex out of Southampton, to Amsterdam and Bruges for May 2024.

Kimmy had never really explored London, whereas I had grazed the surface. This time, we were determined to make “mushy peas” out of it.

For many months leading up to this trip, we were determined to design the most complete 2-day itinerary, complete with all the must-see top sites and attractions. Mission accomplished!

Enjoy London day two -— the most comprehensive self-guided tour of the Westminster Borough, complete with distance/time data, directions, navigational map links, insider’s tips, etc.

Starting at Buckingham Palace, visit 9 of London’s top sights and attractions including St. James’s Park, The Sanctuary House Hotel, Westminster Abbey, Palace of Westminster, Big Ben, Bridge Arch Photo, and London Eye.

London

london weather

Buckingham Palace

Recognized around the world as the official London residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal celebrations.

Located in the city of Westminster, the Palace is home to over 775 rooms, of which 19 of them are State rooms, 52 official royal bedrooms and guest rooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms.

Witness the palace's iconic black and gold gates or watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, where the royal guards swap their bearskin hats and march to military music. Paid admission.

St James's Park

280 meters | 4 minutes

St. James's Park, London's oldest royal park, was created in 1603 by King James I and later redesigned by John Nash in the 19th century.

Nestled between Buckingham Palace, The Mall, and Horse Guards Parade, this 57-acre park offers scenic walking paths, a central lake with swans, and stunning views of iconic landmarks.

The park is also known for its ceremonial role in royal events, such as the Trooping the Colour. FREE admission.

The Sanctuary House Hotel

300 meters | 4 minutes

Housed in a Victorian building, Sanctuary House Hotel is a charming boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Westminster, just steps from iconic landmarks like Westminster Abbey and Big Ben.

Its unique feature is The Sanctuary Pub, a traditional British pub on the ground floor, offering a cozy spot for dining and drinks. Some would say that the best things are often unplanned, and this was the case here. On a rainy day in London, we stumbled on this little gem, and it was so good we had to include it in our tour.

We shared a Fishermans pie (seafood) and it was out of this world. FREE admission — items available for purchase.

Westminster Abbey

260 meters | 4 minutes

Westminster Abbey, an architectural masterpiece, has been the coronation church since 1066 and is the final resting place of 17 monarchs.

Founded in 960 AD, this Gothic wonder houses the Coronation Chair and the Poet's Corner, where literary giants like Chaucer and Dickens are interred. The abbey's stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings attract millions of visitors annually.

It’s not only a historical and religious site but also a venue for royal weddings, including that of Prince William and Kate Middleton, making it a must-visit landmark steeped in British heritage. Paid admission.

Palace of Westminster

200 meters | 3 minutes

The Palace of Westminster, also known as the Houses of Parliament, is the heart of British democracy. Originally a royal residence, it has served as the seat of Parliament since the 13th century.

Rebuilt in the Gothic Revival style by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin after a fire in 1834, it features the iconic Big Ben clock tower. The palace houses both the House of Commons and House of Lords, and visitors can take guided tours of its historic chambers.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Palace remains a symbol of British political power and heritage. Paid admission.

Big Ben

260 meters | 4 minutes

Big Ben, London’s iconic clock tower, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Completed in 1859, the tower is part of the Palace of Westminster and officially named the Elizabeth Tower, in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

The nickname "Big Ben" actually refers to the massive 13.5-ton bell inside. Renowned for its precise timekeeping, the clock tower has survived wars and restorations, symbolizing resilience and British heritage. Written under the clock are the latin words DOMINE SALVAM FAC REGINAM NOSTRAM VICTORIAM PRIMAM. The meaning…"O Lord, keep safe our Queen Victoria the First."  Paid admission.

Bridge Arch Photo

350 meters | 5 minutes

The Westminster Bridge Arch Photo captures the stunning view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament framed by the arches of Westminster Bridge.

This picturesque spot, located at the south end of the bridge near the London Eye, offers a perfect vantage point for photographers.

The gothic architecture of the historic buildings juxtaposed with the modernity of the bridge creates a captivating image, especially at sunset or dawn when the lighting enhances the scene's charm. Paid admission.

London Eye

350 meters | 5 minutes

The London Eye, an iconic symbol of modern London, offers breathtaking views of the city from its location on the South Bank of the Thames.

Opening in 2000 to celebrate the millennium, this giant Ferris wheel stands 135 meters tall, making it one of the tallest observation wheels in the world.

Each of its 32 glass capsules represents the boroughs of London, providing panoramic vistas of landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and St. Paul's Cathedral. Paid admission.

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