About London
London is home to several galleries, museums, theatres, monuments, shops, and markets. Many intriguing philosophical and technological ideas of the 21st century have evolved here. The modern-age computer is the brainchild of Alan Turing, a Britisher. Bangers, Scotch Eggs, Shepherd’s Pie, and Chicken Tikka Masala are a few of the most loved dishes in this city.
From the Gothic style to several ancient and contemporary designs, London has had a paramount role in architecture and design. Writers like Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and Jane Austen are loved all over the globe.
Places to visit in London
London has many incredible places. The most famous churches, cathedrals, museums, and theatres form the core of this city. Its political and cultural landmarks have thrived over all these years and shaped the modern world. Here are a few places tourists should visit when in London.
- The British Museum: The British Museum boasts a collection of over eight million works of art. Egyptian collections of mummies, classical Greek sculptors, Crouching Venus, the Statue of Tara, Amaravati sculptures, the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian busts, and the Eight Marbles are a few of the priceless centres of attraction.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: St. Paul's Cathedral is an Anglican church in St. Paul's Churchyard. It is a listed building with a Grade I status and serves as the mother church of the Diocese of London. Sir Christopher Wren designed the cathedral in the late 17th century and is celebrated for its distinctive architectural style. Its design reflects a blend of Neoclassical and English Baroque influences. St. Paul's Cathedral is undeniably a remarkable masterpiece on British soil.
- National Gallery: National Gallery beholds a few of the most important paintings, including Leonardo Da Vinci’s works. His mathematical precision and techniques have remained prevalent to this day. The Virgin of the Rocks and Narcissus are timeless classics. J.M.W. Turner, Vincent van Gogh, Jan Van Eyck, and Sandro Botticelli’s work are part of this ornate gallery.
- Madame Tussauds: The most well-designed wax sculptures of celebrities can be found at Madame Tussauds. It has more than 190 statues, that includes those of Johnny Depp, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, and Shah Rukh Khan, among others.
- The London Eye: The Millennium Wheel, also called the London Eye. It is Europe’s tallest cantilever wheel and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United Kingdom. The London Eye was considered the world’s tallest Ferris wheel at the beginning of the 21st century at 443 metres of height.
- Buckingham Palace: Buckingham Palace is also called London’s royal heritage. It is the administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. It has been the official residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1937. According to the British Monarchy, there are 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 92 offices, 188 staff bedrooms, 78 bathrooms, and 19 different staterooms. Visitors can peek at the 19 varied staterooms for a limited time.
- Tower Bridge: Tower Bridge is another Grade Ⅰ-listed combined bascule and suspension bridge. This iconic bridge goes over the magnificent River Thames. Horace Jones designed it, and John Wolfe Barry engineered it. Its neo-Gothic architecture makes it one of the best locations to observe the river. When it first opened in 1984, this bridge was considered the most sophisticated bascule bridge in the world.
Tips to remember for a trip to London
- River buses can provide one of the most delightful experiences for travellers to explore the River Thames.
- Consider purchasing an Oyster card to make payments in London. It is much more convenient.
- Try booking tickets in advance for any of the selected sightseeing places.
London Airport
IndiGo flies to two airports in London, Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Gatwick Airport (LGW). All flights to London via IndiGo arrive at these airports.
- Heathrow Airport (LHR) is one of London's six international airports. It has four terminals and is located in west London, almost 22 km from central London. It takes approximately one hour to reach the city centre from the airport.
- Gatwick Airport (LGW) is located south of London and has two Terminals. Taxis and trains are easily available at both airports.
London visa requirements
A UK visa is required to visit London. These documents are required to file for a London visa application:
- London visa application form.
- Two recent passport-size photographs.
- A valid passport.
- Proof of financial support.
- Visa fee receipt.
- Evidence of occupation.