London is one of the greatest cities on earth and stands in the centre of time on the prime meridian. It is from this unique position that the city grew, from trade with both east and west. London continues to be the world’s centre for finance, banking and stock exchange, leading the world into the 3rd Millennium.

The Houses of Parliament at Westminster

London is an ancient city, dating back to Roman times. It has not been invaded since the Normans arrived in 1066 and despite endless bombing during the Second World War, most if its historic treasures survive. You never know what you will find around the next corner, from ancient Egyptian artefacts to astonishing modern architecture; there is so much variety it is sometimes hard for visitors to know where to start.

The London Eye

Down the centuries, London has given a home to free speech, various religious beliefs, new ideas and refugees from around the globe. This has brought people from every corner of the planet to meet, settle and live here. You will find London to be one of the greatest multi-cultural cities in the world.

Buckingham Palace, viewed from the London Eye

London is at the forefront of fashion, art and music. It has the greatest concentration of museums and some of the best theatre shows in the world. You will find a diverse spread of markets, many of them dating back to medieval times. Shops range from big high street names, designer stores and small individual boutiques.

Famous squares include Trafalgar Square, a memorial to a hero of the Napoleonic wars

There is pomp, ceremony and spectacle from a wide range of annual and one-off events. Yet you will also find quiet cobbled lanes, alleys and sunny squares, many of which hold hidden secrets from times gone by. There are plenty of parks and open spaces, where you can take a walk and admire the ever changing seasons.

Piccadilly Circus, marking the entrance into London's entertainment district

London has survived plagues, fires and wars. It has seen the Romans build walls, the Normans build towers, the Tudors build palaces, the Georgians build splendour, and the Victorians build grandeur.  Modern additions include one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels and magnificent 21st century architecture. London is also a city of firsts, such as the location of the world’s first television broadcast, the first underground railway and the first international money exchange.

St Paul's Cathedral, with it's famous dome, one of the largest in the world

The City of London is a mix of historic and modern buildings, housing some of the most famous financial institutions in the world

The Tower of London is a royal palace dating from 1078

One of the most famous London landmarks is Tower Bridge

Whatever brings you to London, you will find a jumble of culture, vibrant nightlife, fascinating history and exciting adventure that never seems to end.

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