LONDON WEEKEND BREAKS - Sightseeing
London quite possibly has more sightseeing attractions than any other city
in the world, not surprising given the history and significance of this international centre of business, culture and democracy.
London's tourist hot-spots range from physical examples of the city's architectural heritage, to collections in museums and galleries, travelling exhibitions, lavish West End shows and nationally significant civic parades.
Whatever time of year, whichever day of the week, and whatever hour of the day, London has something worth seeing.
Below you will find a list of links that will take you to full page summaries (with photos) of what we believe to be London's top 50 tourist sightseeing attractions, many of which inevitably find there way into most visitors London weekend breaks.
London's main Sightseeing and tourist attractions
Family Attractions
These are visitor attractions where there are things to see and do that "should" provide entertainment for people of all ages.
Madam Tussauds is a museum of waxworks featuring famous cultural, sporting and celebrity personas throughout history.
The London Planetarium (Spacedome) A London visitor attraction for all of the family.
The London Eye London's most recent major tourist attraction.
A River Boat Cruise is a relaxing way to get a riverside view of London from one of the most famous rivers in the world, the Thames.
The London Dungeon takes its visitors on a trip back in time to a dangerous and brutal London where life had little value.
London Ghost walks a guided tour through London's ghost districts can be a weekend break highlight.
London tourist bus This can be an entertaining and flexible way to see and experience London.
The Barbican Centre is Europe's largest performing arts complex and home to the London Symphony Orchestra. It has theatres, restaurants and much more.
Also see "Bulidings, Palaces and Cathedrals" (like the Tower of London), many of which may also prove excellent family attractions.
Museums and Galleries
These are the main museums and galleries in London and entry to most of them is free.
The Natural History Museum is one of London's most visited tourist attractions with an incredible variety and number of exhibits.
The Tate Modern is situated on the south bank of the river Thames and highlights modern and contemporary art.
The British Museum holds the world's largest collection of historical artifacts and charts the development of mankind through different cultures and time zones.
The National Gallery is located next to Trafalgar Square and has over 2,300 paintings on display.
The Domesday Book
The Victoria and Albert Museum has 146 galleries of artistic exhibits ranging from metal works to fashion.
The London Science Museum offers a different "take" on the regular museum theme by looking at scientific developments and using interaction with some displays.
Gardens and Parks
These are parks and gardens where you can relax or simply enjoy the scenery.
Kew Gardens The world's largest botanic gardens and a great place for a family day out.
St. James Park Is close to Buckingham Palace and offers a relaxing retreat from London's busy streets.
Hyde Park This is probably London's best known royal park.
Regents Park features stunning gardens, a canal, tennis courts, a zoo and many beautiful areas in which to relax.
Kensington Gardens
Victoria Tower Gardens
Buildings, Palaces and Cathedrals
These are buildings and structures that you can enter and walk around, although an entrance charge may be levied for some of them.
Buckingham Palace is one of the world's most photographed buildings and home to the King or Queen of Britain.
St Paul's cathedral - One of London's most famous and beautiful landmarks
The Tower of London is a "must see" visitor stop for anyone who has not visited it before. It also holds the British Crown Jewels.
The houses of Parliament (Palace of Westminster)
Westminster Abbey remains the host of Royal weddings and funerals just as it has been since the days of William the Conqueror>
Kensington Palace
Windsor Castle is a principal royal residence of the Queen and it can be visted on a guided tour.
Hampton Court Palace
Tower bridge is possibly London's most famous landmark and at the time of its construction it was a masterpiece of engineering.
Telecom Tower
Monuments, structures and famous locations
These are famous locations and monuments that you may wish to see, but that you cannot generally enter or directly engage in (although there are exceptions).
Trafalgar Square and Nelson's column
Guards Memorial
The Cenotaph
Constitution Arch
Admiralty Arch
Covent Garden
Baker Street
Downing Street
Horse Guards Parade
Hyde Park Gate
The South Bank Centre
The Queen Victoria Memorial
The Bank of England
The London Docklands
The Theatre Royal