A Brief Guide To London's Historical Attractions

A Brief Guide To London's Historical Attractions

 “If you're going through hell, keep going. Never, never, never give up. We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” W. Churchill

London is a city teeming with locales and attractions. One genre amongst them being the many trials and tribulations faced by the British people in major events that shook not only the UK, but the whole world.

From inspiring monuments to add to your sight-seeing agenda, to more in-depth journeys for the historian in some of us, we’ve gathered information on some of London's most interesting attractions that tell stories of the events that altered the course of London's history and made it the city it is today.

The stunning green space of Hyde Park is home to many memorials, all within walking distance of each other and all among beautiful surrounds. What better way to explore Hyde Park then to swing by monuments dedicated to some of the great people and events of London’s past. 

The Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is the most central of these experiences. With a beautiful running water monument and plenty of room for a picnic in the sun, it is a great place to take the kids to enjoy the atmosphere, while taking in a lovely art piece dedicated to one of the UK’s most charitable and beloved royals.

Did you know: Diana's sister, Lady Sarah Spencer, dated Prince Charles first, that’s how the royal couple first met!

Walking East will take you to the impressive Australian and New Zealand War Memorials, which is a sombre and enlightening experience with some extraordinary structures dedicated to those fallen in World War I and II.

Finally for the animal lovers, why not travel North to the Animals In War Memorial while in the area? This small but moving monument is dedicated to the countless animals that served and lost their lives under British military command throughout the war.

Winston Churchill War Museums

Closer to London’s bustling centre and right near Buckingham Palace are the Churchill War Rooms, a sister museum to the Imperial War Museum located in Kennington, and hidden gem for those interested in WW2 and Mr Churchill. 

The museum comprises the Cabinet War Rooms, a historic underground complex that housed a British government command centre throughout the Second World War, and the Churchill Museum, a biographical museum exploring the life of British statesman Winston Churchill. Anyone with an interest in WW2 is bound to enjoy this rare and interesting look into one of the UK’s most well known figures.

Did you know: Mr Churchill, affectionately known as the ‘British Bulldog’, was actually half American? He was also the first person to ever be made an honorary American citizen.

Gorgeous Greenwich

Greenwich is full of amazing sights, sounds and smells for people from all walks of life. From the mouth watering food at Greenwich Markets to exploring the beginning of (mean) time at the Greenwich Observatory, there’s truly something for everyone.

A short walk away, opposite the famous Greenwich University, which is a delight in itself, is the National Maritime Museum. Inside its walls you will be treated to a comprehensive tour of the UK’s history at sea, as it is one of the largest Maritime Museums in the world. 

Enjoy detailed descriptions of thundering Naval battles and discover iconic items and art that were shipped across the world on trade routes set up by the famous East India Trading Company, known for accounting for half of the entire worlds trade at their peak.

Did you know: The maritime museum contains items procured from German Naval bases after WW2. Said to be ‘War Trophies’, some describe the objects as ‘Looted Art’.

In addition to the above, there are loads of events and exhibitions around London that offer a great experience to visitors that arr fascinated by all things historical, or simply just curious to learn more. 

If you’re still looking for somewhere to stay in summer 2017 there is still time to book your trip to London – contact us here at Ivy Lettings! We have over 8 years’ experience servicing London Vacation rentals. You can trust our professional service and we’d love to help with your London holiday.

Please phone us on +44 020 7349 7016 and we’d be happy to help you find the ideal holiday apartment or vacation home.

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