Trip Preview: London

London is packed with history, iconic landmarks, and unique experiences, and we’ve built an itinerary that mixes major sights with a few memorable activities. While we’re only there for a few days, we’re planning to cover a wide range of what the city has to offer—from historic sites to scenic views to immersive experiences.

London Tube

Iconic London Landmarks

While in London, we plan on seeing sights like the London Eye, Tower of London, and HMS Belfast.

The London Eye is one of the best ways to take in the scale of the city. The slow-moving observation wheel gives panoramic views over the River Thames and skyline, and on a clear day you can see for miles in every direction.

The Tower of London is one of the city’s most historic landmarks, known for its role as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. It’s also home to the Crown Jewels, making it both historically significant and visually impressive.

HMS Belfast offers a completely different experience—it’s a preserved World War II warship that you can actually walk through. Exploring the decks and interior spaces gives a hands-on look at what life was like for sailors during the war.

HMS Belfast

Historic and Cultural Stops

We’re also planning to visit St Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, and the Churchill War Rooms.

St. Paul’s Cathedral is known for its massive dome and impressive interior—it's one of the most recognizable features of London’s skyline. Westminster Abbey is where British monarchs have been crowned for centuries, adding a strong sense of history to the visit.

The Churchill War Rooms offer a look into the underground headquarters where key decisions were made during World War II. It’s designed to feel immersive, almost like stepping back into that time period.

Westminster Abbey

Classic London Sights

While exploring central London, we’ll be walking by landmarks like Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, and crossing Tower Bridge.

These are some of the most photographed spots in the city. Big Ben (technically the bell inside the clock tower) is one of London’s most recognizable symbols, and Tower Bridge is often mistaken for London Bridge due to its distinctive design.

London Parliament Building and Big Ben

Museums and Experiences

We’re planning to spend time at the British Museum and the Natural History Museum.

The British Museum houses artifacts from across the world, including pieces from ancient Egypt and Greece, making it one of the most comprehensive museums globally. The Natural History Museum is known not just for its exhibits—like dinosaur skeletons—but also for its stunning architecture.

We also have a more immersive experience planned with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, where we’ll get to see original sets, props, and behind-the-scenes details from the films.

The British Museum

Exploring the City Atmosphere

Beyond the major landmarks, we’re planning time to explore places like Hyde Park for a more relaxed walk, and areas like Chinatown London and Leadenhall Market for food and atmosphere.

Hyde Park offers a quieter break from the busy city, while Chinatown is known for its variety of restaurants and vibrant streets. Leadenhall Market is a historic covered market with ornate architecture—and it’s also been used as a filming location in the Harry Potter films.

Bridge in Hyde Park

Seeing London from Different Perspectives

We’re also planning to experience London from the water with a ride along the River Thames. This should give us a different view of many of the city’s landmarks and help break up the more structured sightseeing.

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Overall, our time in London is focused on a mix of history, iconic views, and unique experiences. From walking through centuries-old buildings to standing above the city skyline, this part of the trip is shaping up to be a well-rounded introduction to everything London has to offer.