London, England   Travel Guide

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34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

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Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

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Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

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Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

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British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

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Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

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Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

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West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

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The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

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Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

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St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

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Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

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St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

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National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

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Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

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Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa MĂ©ndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 Ÿ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

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Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa MĂ©ndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

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Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

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Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

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Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

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Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

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London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

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Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

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Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

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Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

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Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa MĂ©ndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

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Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

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The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

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London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

london visit video

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

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VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet

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Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London

Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London

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Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

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Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

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Free English Lessons

Tour of london in english – video.

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Tour of London thumbnail

In this lesson, you’ll go on a tour of London in English.

Have you been to london before if so, what did you do if not, what would you most like to see, in this lesson, you’ll go on a tour of london. you’ll learn useful language to deal with common tourist situations, like buying tickets , going to museums or talking to taxi drivers., quiz: tour of london in english.

Now, test your knowledge of what you learned in the lesson by trying this quiz.

You will get your score at the end, when you can click on ‘View Questions’ to see all the correct answers.

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Well done! You got more than half the questions right. Keep practising, and if you’re visiting London soon, we hope it’s blinding!

Excellent! You’ve learned the language from this lesson really well. Check the questions you didn’t get right and, if you’re off to London soon, we hope it’s an absolutely blinding trip!

Top marks, well done. You certainly know your way around the language of London, and if you’re visiting soon, have a blinding trip!

1 . Question

Rearrange the highlighted letters to find three London landmarks:

The ushoes of Parliament = The of Parliament The retow of London = The of London St Paul’s cheatlard = St Paul’s

2 . Question

Match the two parts of these London landmarks:

Sort elements

3 . question.

Write the five-letter word to complete this question which you might ask before you get on a tour bus:

Could you tell me more about the and the things we’ll see along the way?

4 . Question

Which is the correct question to ask about the duration of a tour on a bus?

  • How long does it take?
  • How long does it have?
  • How long does it come?
  • How long does it make?

5 . Question

Rearrange the words into the correct order to form a question you might ask at a museum:

View Answers:

6 . Question

Write two five-letter words in the gap for something you might use on a tour bus.

There’s an to listen to as you go round.

7 . Question

Which expression refers to a tour bus that you can use to do the journey in sections as many times as you like during the duration of the ticket?

  • hop-on/hop-off
  • hop-up/hop-down
  • hop-in/hop-out
  • hop-forward/hop-back

8 . Question

Write a two-letter word to complete the question which you might ask at the cinema:

What films are at the moment?

9 . Question

Which of these things would you expect to see at a museum? Choose one option.

  • an exhibition

10 . Question

Which of these questions could you ask at a hotel? Choose as many as you think are right.

  • What kind of rooms are available?
  • What type of rooms are available?
  • What sort of rooms are available?
  • What genre of rooms are available?

11 . Question

Write the four-letter word that could replace the highlighted word in the question:

Excuse me, do you accept euros? Excuse me, do you euros?

12 . Question

Write two words (4 and 6 letters) for cheap tickets that you might buy immediately before a theatre show starts.

Let’s see if there are any – tickets for a show this evening.

13 . Question

What seven-letter word is a play at the theatre (or a film at the cinema) that contains singing and dancing?

14 . Question

A matinee is a theatre performance that normally takes place at what time of day?

  • First thing in the morning
  • The afternoon
  • Late in the evening
  • The middle of the night

15 . Question

Which words refer to parts of a theatre? Choose as many as you think are right.

16 . Question

What is the informal question tag, used at the end of sentences in London slang?

  • The weather looks nice, innit?
  • The weather looks nice, izzit?
  • The weather looks nice, arnit?
  • The weather looks nice, avvit?

17 . Question

‘Blinding’ and ‘dodgy’ are slang words that mean opposite things. Write one of them in the gap, so that it makes sense in the context:

I wouldn’t go south of the river if I were you – it’s right down there.

18 . Question

Which London slang expression means that something is really annoying?

  • This really does my nut.
  • This really does my peach.
  • This really does my biscuit.
  • This really does my head.

19 . Question

‘The old bill’ refers to Londoners who work in which profession?

  • The health service
  • The government
  • The fire brigade

20 . Question

Complete the four-letter slang name for pounds, which you might be asked to pay in a London taxi:

That’ll be ten q !

1. A Bus Tour of London in English

Tour of London in English - bus

Gina: Hi, good morning.

Olivier: Hi. Can I help?

G: My friends and I are thinking of doing your bus tour tomorrow. Could you tell me more about the route and where we’ll go?

O: Actually, we offer many different routes. Is there anything in particular you’d like to see?

G: Well, I think we want the classic London experience: Big Ben, the Tower of London, and so on.

O: In that case I’d recommend our original route. It starts and ends at Grosvenor Gardens, just near Buckingham Palace. You’ll cross the river by the Houses of Parliament, then back again near the London Eye. You’ll also go past the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, and several other London landmarks.

G: That sounds good. How long does it take?

O: The whole route takes about two hours, but it’s a hop on-hop off tour, so you can get off wherever you want.

G: And how much are tickets?

O: If you book online, they’re 25 pounds each, or 35 if you buy from the driver.

G: Do you do any kind of group discount?

O: We offer a family ticket, which includes two adults and two children.

G: I’m travelling with friends, so I guess that’s no good. I just have one more question: is there a guide, or an audio guide?

O: There’s a live guide, who speaks English. If any of your group want a tour in another language, we have audio guides available in 11 different languages at no extra cost.

G: That sounds great. Thanks for your help!

First question for our tour of London in English: can you name five famous London landmarks? If you don’t know, ‘ landmarks ’ means famous places. For example, the Eiffel Tower is possibly the best-known Paris landmark. So, can you name five London landmarks? You heard several examples in the dialogue. Here are the examples you heard before: Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral. You could mention others, like Marble Arch, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, or famous football stadia like The Emirates or Wembley.

In the dialogue, I was asking questions about a bus tour of the city. Can you remember any of the questions I asked? You heard:

  • Could you tell me more about the route and where we’ll go?
  • How much are tickets?
  • Do you do any kind of group discount?
  • Is there a guide, or an audio guide?

You could ask these questions in many common travel situations; they aren’t only useful when booking a bus tour of London in English! For example, you could make questions like this:

  • Could you tell me more about the tour, and what’s included?
  • How much is the transport?
  • Do you do any kind of students’ discount?

The bus tour we were talking about is ‘hop on/hop off’. This means you can get off the bus to visit places on the way, and then get back on another bus later.

Let’s make our first stop on our tour of London, and go to one of London’s famous museums.  

2. Going to a Museum

Tour of London in English - British Museum image

Olivier: Good morning, welcome to the Tate Modern.

Gina: Good morning. I’d like four tickets please.

O: Actually, general admission to the Tate modern is free; you just have to pay separately for the exhibitions.

G: Oh
 Great! I didn’t realise that. What do you have on at the moment?

O: We have a wonderful Picasso exhibition, which I’d highly recommend. We also have exhibitions by Franz West and Dorothea Tanning.

G: I’d love to see the Picasso exhibition. How much are the tickets?

O: They’re eighteen pounds for adults and five pounds for children under 18.

G: We also have a 7-year-old with us. Do we need a ticket for him?

O: No, under-12s get in free.

G: OK, so two adults and one child then, please.

O: What time would you like the ticket for?

G: Excuse me?

O: With exhibitions, especially popular ones like the Picasso, your ticket is for a specific time. There’s a 30-minute slot, and you have to enter the exhibition hall within that time.

G: You mean, I only get 30 minutes to look around?! That’s not long enough!

O: No, no! You can stay as long as you like; it just regulates when you can go in.

G: I see! In that case, what times are available?

O: Well, it’s 10.45 now. I could give you tickets for the eleven to eleven-thirty entrance slot.

G: That’s fine.

O: That’s £36, please.

G: Do you take euros?

O: I’m afraid not.

G: I’ll pay by card, then.

Do you like going to art galleries or museums? Which London museums have you heard of? The Tate Modern, which you heard about in the dialogue, is a famous modern art museum. There are many other well-known London museums, such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, or the Natural History Museum. For now, let’s look at some useful language from the dialogue in our tour of London in English.

Near the beginning, you heard this question: ‘What do you have on at the moment?’ Do you know what this means? ‘On’ refers to an event, performance, or exhibition which is happening now. You can use it in different situations; for example, at the cinema, at the theatre, or in a museum:

  • What films are on at the moment?
  • At the theatre: ‘Are there any good plays on?
  • There’s a really interesting exhibition on at the Science Museum.

You also heard some more useful questions related to buying tickets; for example:

  • Do we need a ticket for him?
  • What times are available?
  • Do you take euros?

Like much of the language in this lesson, you can adapt these for different situations, like this:

  • Do we need a ticket for my son?
  • Do you take dollars?

3. Buying Theatre Tickets

Tour of London in English - theatre image

Olivier: Hi, how can I help you?

Gina: Hello! We haven’t planned this very well, but we decided this morning we wanted to see a show while we are here, and thought it might be possible to get some cheap last-minute tickets.

O: Any idea of what you want to see?

G: No, I don’t even know what’s on right now, actually.

O: Well, were you thinking a musical, or a play?

G: I think
 a musical. It’ll be more fun for the kids.

O: Here, take a look at this. These are the musicals we have on at the moment.

G: I really don’t know. Can you recommend something?

O: How old are your children?

G: Five and nine.

O: I think the Lion King would be perfect. It’s one of our longest running shows, and it’s good fun.

G: That sounds perfect! How much are the tickets?

O: Well, first of all, what time would you like to go? We have matinee and evening tickets available. The matinee tickets are slightly cheaper.

G: What time is the matinee?

O: It’s at two-thirty, so in about an hour. The evening performance is at seven-thirty.

G: Two-thirty is too soon. I guess it’ll have to be the evening.

O: OK, evening it is. The second question is: where would you like to sit? You can choose from stalls, Royal Circle or Grand Circle. Take a look at this seating plan.

G: Hmm
 We’re kind of on a budget. Which tickets are the cheapest?

O: You could sit in the Grand Circle, near the back. We have four seats together, just here. [point to imaginary screen]

G: How much would they be?

O: Normally, they’re eighty pounds each, but because it’s last minute, they’re down to forty-five.

G: Is it cheaper for children?

O: No, I’m afraid not. All tickets are the same price.

G: Alright, I guess we won’t get another chance anytime soon. I’ll take them!

Look at five words and phrases which you heard in the dialogue. They’re all connected with going to the theatre.

  • last-minute tickets

Do you know what these words mean? How would you explain the meaning?

If you’re on a budget, you might want to look for ‘last-minute tickets’. You buy last-minute tickets close to the time of the show you want to see. Last-minute tickets are often cheaper. You can use ‘last-minute’ to talk about other things as well; for example: ‘last-minute plane tickets’, or ‘a last-minute hotel booking’.

Learn more with this Oxford Online English lesson: Hotel English .

A ‘musical’ is a play—or a film—which includes songs and dancing routines. Can you think of any other famous musicals?

A ‘matinee’ is a performance which starts earlier in the day, usually in the afternoon. You can also use the word ‘matinee’ to talk about films at the cinema.

A typical theatre has two types of seating: ‘stalls’ and ‘circle’. The stalls are the seats in front of the stage, and at the same level. The circle is higher and further back, so seats in the circle tend to be cheaper.

Now, you’ve been on a tour of London all day, and you’re feeling tired. It’s time to talk about transport . Let’s jump in a taxi and go back to your hotel.

4. Taking a Taxi

Tour of London in English - taxi

Olivier: Where to?

Gina: Excuse me?

O: Where are you going?

G: Oh, sorry. Trafalgar Square, please. Do you know how much it will be?

O: It’s all on the meter, but should be around £25.

G: OK, that’s fine. How’s your day going?

O: Typical Saturday, innit? Very busy, but can’t complain. Are you just here visiting?

G: Yes, I’m from the US. Are you from London originally?

O: Yep. Proper Londoner. Born and bred here.

G: So, you like it here?

O: It’s a blinding place to live.

G: Oh, right.

O: Obviously there a few places that are a little dodgy, but I think you get that in any big city.

G: Of course.

O: I mean, it just does my nut when people talk about how dangerous London has become.

G: Well
 Yes


O: I mean you’ve got to say the old bill do a good job around here.

G: The old who?

O: The old bill. That’s what we call the police here.

G: Ah
 actually could you drop me off here? I’d like to walk down The Mall.

O: Yeah, no problem. That’s 25 quid please.

If you didn’t understand all of that, don’t worry. We included some colloquial words and phrases that are typical in London, and you might hear when you go on a tour of London in English.

  • does my nut

Have you heard any of these before? ‘Innit’ is used instead of question tags like ‘are you?’ or ‘doesn’t it?’ For example, instead of ‘The weather looks nice, doesn’t it?’ you might hear ‘The weather looks nice, innit?’ This is colloquial, and as an English learner you probably shouldn’t use it, but you might hear it in the UK.

‘Blinding’ is a slang word which means ‘very good’. On the other hand, something which is ‘dodgy’ is not good at all.

‘Dodgy’ means that something is wrong. If you describe a person as dodgy, you mean that this person shouldn’t be trusted. If you talk about a dodgy area of a city, you’re talking about an area which isn’t always safe to walk around.

If something ‘does your nut’, it annoys you. For example, you could say ‘This music really does my nut.’ Again, this is very colloquial! Use it for fun if you want, but expect people to give you some strange looks. The ‘old bill’, as you heard, are the police. This is London-specific slang.

Finally, ‘ quid ’ is another word for ‘pounds’. This is common, and you’ll probably hear it if you visit the UK. So, if something costs ten pounds, you can say that it costs ten quid instead. ‘Quid’ is too colloquial to use in writing; also, ‘quid’ doesn’t change in the plural: one quid, two quid, three quid


Anyway, we hope you feel ready for a trip so you can take a tour of London in English! Do you have any recommendations for things to do in London? Please share your ideas in the comments! Thanks for watching!

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Horses Run Loose Through Central London in Surreal Spectacle

A number of runaway army horses galloped through London on Wednesday morning, causing alarm and injuring pedestrians. All of the animals were eventually recovered.

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By Mark Landler

Reporting from London

Several runaway military horses galloped through the streets of London on Wednesday morning, alarming pedestrians, sideswiping cars and buses, and turning an ordinary rush hour into a frightening, almost surreal spectacle.

Four people were treated for injuries, including a soldier who was thrown from one of the horses, according to the London Ambulance Service. The horses, which belong to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, a unit that parades in royal pageants, are normally well-trained symbols of London’s regal past.

On Wednesday, however, they broke into a panicked stampede that had more in common with the Wild West. Galloping past some of London’s most famous sites — from Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge — they left a trail of damaged vehicles and shocked pedestrians, some of whom had to dart out of their way.

By 10:30 a.m., the Metropolitan Police said that all the horses had been recovered and were back in their barracks in Hyde Park. But some had suffered injuries, including a white horse that had blood splashed on its neck, chest and forelimbs.

The drama began shortly after 8 a.m. when the horses, apparently spooked by the noise from a nearby construction site, threw off the military riders who were taking them out for routine exercises. Photographs showed one of the soldiers being treated while lying on the ground on Buckingham Palace Road.

Video footage captured a pair of riderless horses galloping in Aldwych, a stately area in central London. Their hooves clattered in the shadow of grand stone buildings as passers-by scattered, buses jerked to a stop and cars honked. The white horse, wearing a saddle and stirrups with its reins flying behind it, was caught on video later galloping in the vicinity of Tower Bridge.

Other pictures showed the result of unexpected encounters between animals and a busy urban landscape: a double-decker tour bus with a smashed windshield and a gray Mercedes van with a dented door and smashed rear windows.

As the incident unfolded, newspapers and broadcasters began carrying live coverage, briefly riveting much of the city. The Metropolitan Police said in a statement, “We are aware of a number of horses that are currently loose in central London and are working with colleagues, including the army, to locate them.”

Shortly before 10 a.m., the City of London police reported that its officers had corralled two of the horses near Limehouse, a neighborhood adjacent to the city’s docklands. That indicated they had made their way across Central London, from Westminster through Covent Garden and past the financial district.

“We’re waiting for an army horse box to collect the horses and transport them to veterinary care,” the city police said in a statement.

An army spokesman told The Daily Telegraph that horses had been recovered and returned to their camp, but he added, “A number of personnel and horses have been injured and are receiving the appropriate medical attention.”

The Household Cavalry — made up of the two most senior units in the British Army, the Life Guards and the Blues and Royals — is a familiar sight in royal pageants. They trooped in the coronation of King Charles III last May and during the state funeral of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II , in September 2022.

The cavalry’s horses are trained to be comfortable in busy streets and around people, which made the incident on Wednesday extraordinarily unusual.

Tourists often pose for pictures next to the horses when they stand guard in front of Horse Guards Parade , a ceremonial parade ground on Whitehall, north of Downing Street. The soldiers astride them only occasionally scold the tourists for getting too close or otherwise disturbing the animals.

Mark Landler is the London bureau chief of The Times, covering the United Kingdom, as well as American foreign policy in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He has been a journalist for more than three decades. More about Mark Landler

Multiple people injured after British Army horses escaped, ran loose through central London

All of the horses have since been recovered after they bucked their riders and bolted through london during wednesday morning rush-hour, the british army said..

london visit video

Multiple British military horses, one of which appeared to be covered in blood, escaped their handlers on Wednesday and galloped through central London, according to authorities.

The horses were taking part in British Army exercises near Buckingham Palace when they broke free and bolted into rush-hour traffic in the capital's downtown area, an Army spokesperson said in a statement emailed to USA TODAY.

The London Ambulance Service said in a post on social media site X that it transported four patients to the hospital. The British Army told USA TODAY three of its soldiers were among those requiring treatment at a hospital. The ambulance service did not immediately respond Wednesday morning to USA TODAY's request for comment.

Horses were from Household Cavalry

The horses were from the Life Guards, the most senior regiment of the British Army and part of the Household Cavalry . The ceremonial face of the regiment, members of the prestigious Household Cavalry are tasked with mounted state and public duties in London.

Six soldiers and seven horses from the Life Guards were conducting exercises Wednesday morning when the animals were spooked by falling concrete from a nearby construction site in the Belgravia district, the British Army said.

Photos, video show horse covered in blood

In a post on social media site X , London police said the mayhem was reported around 8:40 a.m. local time.

Five of the horses took off, while four of the soldiers were bucked from their mounts. Photos and videos shared online , showed a white horse covered in what appeared to be blood running alongside a black horses through the streets and sidewalks.

"All of the horses have now been recovered and returned to camp," a British Army spokesperson said in a statement.

Three soldiers who were injured were treated at a hospital and will survive, the agency said.

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

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Multiple people injured as four horses escape into London causing chaos – video report

Four horses escaped from a military barracks during an exercise in central London, injuring multiple people. The horses were filmed galloping through the city, where they crashed into taxis and buses until they were stopped and recovered

Four taken to hospital after military horses break loose in central London

Source: As credited

Wed 24 Apr 2024 17.19 BST

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Four people taken to hospital after military horses bolt through central London

An army spokesperson said a "number of military working horses" had become loose during "routine exercise" this morning.

london visit video

News reporter @thejournojames

Wednesday 24 April 2024 15:49, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

london visit video

Riderless military horses charged through central London today after bolting during morning exercises - with at least four people taken to hospital.

It is thought several horses bolted after they were spooked by the noise of builders sending rubble down a rubbish chute.

The incident happened as the horses took part in what the army called "routine exercise" in the Belgravia area of central London.

Two of the horses, one of which appeared to be covered in blood, were later seen running riderless on the road near Aldwych.

A map of where the horses travelled

Pictures and videos of the horses were shared on social media, one of which showed a black 4x4 with blue lights following the animals.

The London Ambulance Service (LAS) said four people were taken to hospital from three separate incidents on Buckingham Palace Road, Belgrave Square, and the junction of Chancery Lane and Fleet Street.

It is understood that three Household Cavalry personnel were assessed at hospital for their injuries, but they were not seriously hurt.

Jordan Pettitt, a staff photographer at PA Media, witnessed the moment the horses came "hurtling" down the street in Aldwych, with the white horse's front covered in "saturated rich red".

He told Sky News the atmosphere was "eerie" as, despite it being rush hour, the street had fallen "completely silent".

london visit video

The horses then "just emerged from what is a very mundane-coloured landscape in that part of central London, we noticed them immediately and yet it was over in a flash," he said.

Mr Pettitt, who had been in the area covering the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry, added: "It was a very surreal moment, it's not something I would ever expect to see in London nor would anyone expect to see in London."

Follow Sky News on WhatsApp

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

'Total mayhem'

According to the ambulance service, paramedics were first called to the incident on Buckingham Palace Road to reports of a person being thrown from the back of a horse.

A taxi driver waiting outside the nearby Clermont Hotel had the windows of his car smashed after a spooked horse collided with the Mercedes people carrier.

A horse also crashed into a parked double-decker tour bus, smashing the windscreen.

Pic: Alice Porter

Roland, a worker for tour bus company Toot Bus, said the scene was "total mayhem".

"I saw horses come from the bus station in front of Victoria run around in a frenzy. People were running around to avoid them," he said.

'Routine exercise'

An army spokesperson said a "number of military working horses" became loose during "routine exercise" on Wednesday morning.

WHAT IS THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY?

With more than 360 years of history, and as protectors of the Monarch, the Household Cavalry is one of the British Army's elite corps.

It is made up of the two most senior regiments of the British Army - The Life Guards and The Blues and Royals. As part of the Household Division, the corps serves as the King's official bodyguard.

The Household Cavalry Regiment dates back to 1660 and has served in every major British conflict since. On the battlefield, it is an armoured reconnaissance regiment, locating and reporting on the movement of enemy forces, and engaging enemy units attempting to do the same.

It uses the British Army's flagship new AJAX armoured fighting vehicle.

The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment are the ceremonial face of the regiment.

"All of the horses have now been recovered and returned to camp," the spokesperson said.

"A number of personnel and horses have been injured and are receiving the appropriate medical attention."

Sky News understands the animals were Household Cavalry horses.

City of London police said they received a call at around 8.30am and that two of the loose horses had been caught on the Highway near Limehouse.

They were later transported in an army horse box to receive veterinary care.

The horses, wearing saddles and bridles, were seen running in the road near Aldwych on Wednesday morning. Pic: X/Jhopwv

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The Metropolitan Police said in a statement at 10.30am that all the horses had been caught.

"We're pleased to confirm that all of the horses have been accounted for. We are continuing to liaise with the army," the force said in a statement.

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Three incidents in central London

On the incident on Buckingham Palace Road, a spokesperson for the LAS said: "We were called at 8.25am today to reports of a person being thrown from a horse on Buckingham Palace Road.

"We sent resources to the scene including ambulance crews, a paramedic in a fast response car, and an incident response officer.

"Our first paramedic was on the scene in five minutes. We treated a patient at the scene and took them to hospital."

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In relation to the incident on Belgrave Square, the spokesperson said paramedics were called at 8.27am and treated two patients at the scene, both of whom were taken to hospital.

The spokesperson said paramedics were also called to the junction of Chancery Lane and Fleet Street at 8.35am and treated a patient at the scene, who was then taken to hospital.

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Taylor Swift fans drinking at The Black Dog in Vauxhall, south London, said they were there thanks to the track “The Black Dog,” in which the singer describes monitoring an unnamed ex’s visit “into some bar called The Black Dog,” through location share on her phone.

Taylor Swift fans in London seek out pub name-checked on new album

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London police apologize after threatening to arrest ‘openly Jewish’ man near pro-Palestinian protest

Gideon Falter

LONDON — London’s police force has been forced to issue two apologies after officers threatened to arrest an “openly Jewish” man if he refused to leave the area around a pro-Palestinian march because his presence risked provoking the demonstrators.

Gideon Falter, chief executive of the Campaign Against Antisemitism, was wearing a traditional Jewish skullcap when he was stopped by police while trying to cross a street in central London as demonstrators filed past on April 13.

One officer told Falter he was worried that the man’s “quite openly Jewish” appearance could provoke a reaction from the protesters, according to video posted by the campaign group. A second officer then told Falter he would be arrested if he refused to be escorted out of the area because he was “causing a breach of the peace.”

London’s Metropolitan Police Service on Friday afternoon apologized for the language the officer used in describing Falter’s appearance, but said counter demonstrators had to be aware “that their presence is provocative.”

The Met later deleted that apology from its social media accounts and issued a second statement.

“In an effort to make a point about the policing of protest we caused further offense,” the force said. “This was never our intention. We have removed that statement and we apologize.”

“Being Jewish is not a provocation. Jewish Londoners must be able to feel safe in the city.”

The episode highlights the challenges London police face amid the boiling tensions surrounding the war in Gaza, with some Jewish residents saying they feel threatened by  repeated pro-Palestinian marches  through the streets of the British capital.

While the marches have been largely peaceful, many demonstrators accuse Israel of genocide and a small number have shown support for Hamas, the group that led  the Oct. 7 attack on Israel  and which has been banned by the British government as a terrorist organization.

The Met has deployed thousands of officers during each of the dozen major marches as it sought to protect the rights of the pro-Palestinian protesters and prevent clashes with counter-demonstrators and Jewish residents.

Following Falter’s confrontation with police, the Campaign Against Antisemitism issued a call for Londoners to exercise their right to walk wherever they choose on April 27, when another pro-Palestinian march is scheduled.

In response, the Met emailed Falter about what it described as his intention to “protest” next week and offered to meet with him to discuss ways to “ensure we can police the event as safely as possible,” according an exchange of correspondence released by the campaign group.

Falter rejected the idea that he was staging a protest, saying he was planning to go for a walk as a “private individual” and others might choose to join him.

“Unfortunately @MetPoliceUK is missing the point,” he said on the social media site X. “This is not a protest or counterprotest. Anyone who wishes to walk around London on Saturday 27th April 
 is free to do so. Even if they are ‘quite openly Jewish.’”

The Associated Press

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Moment cavalry horses bolt down London street covered in blood as injuries reported

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Seven cavalry horses bolted around London streets during rush hour, leaving four people needing hospital treatment.

A number of people, including Army personnel, were injured when ‘mayhem’ erupted on Wednesday as seven of the animals got loose.

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Story continues below.

The London Ambulance Service said it had treated four people across three separate incidents in Buckingham Palace Road, Belgrave Square and the junction of Chancery Lane and Fleet Street, after the horses ran amok.

A taxi driver waiting outside the Clermont Hotel in Buckingham Palace Road had the windows of his car smashed after a spooked horse collided with the Mercedes people carrier.

A horse also crashed into a parked double-decker tour bus, smashing the windscreen

London police officers had to track them down as they ran loose through the city streets.

A white horse on the loose bolts through the streets of London near Aldwych. Pic: Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire

Officers later confirmed they had been caught and they were waiting for an army horse box to collect the animals and take them to a vet.

In a statement, police said: ‘At around 8.40am, we were called about horses that had become loose and were travelling through the City. Our officers have contained two horses on the highway near Limehouse.

‘We’re waiting for an army horse box to collect the horses and transport them to veterinary care’

Sky News reported they were Household Cavalry horses.

Two horses on the loose bolt through the streets of London near Aldwych. Pic: Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire

A British army spokesperson said: ‘A number of military working horses became loose during routine exercise this morning.

‘All of the horses have now been recovered and returned to camp. A number of personnel and horses have been injured and are receiving the appropriate medical attention.’

Earlier, the animals, wearing saddles and bridles, were seen running in the road near Aldwych.

A white horse on the loose bolts through the streets of London near Aldwych. Pic: Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire

Pictures and videos of the horses were shared on social media, one of which showed a black 4×4 with blue lights following the animals.

A London ambulance service spokesperson said: “We were called at 8.35am today to reports of an incident with a horse at the junction of Chancery Lane and Fleet Street.

‘We sent resources to the scene including an ambulance crew and members of our tactical response unit.

‘The incident is still ongoing and we are working with our emergency services partners.’

The London Ambulance Service said it was called at 8.25am to reports of a person being thrown from a horse in Buckingham Palace Road.

A spokesperson said: “We sent resources to the scene including ambulance crews, a paramedic in a fast response car, and an incident response officer.

Our first paramedic was on the scene in five minutes.

The incident is still ongoing and we are working with our emergency services partners.’

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Taylor Swift fans descend on London pub name-checked on album

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The Black Dog pub, claimed to have been referenced in lyrics in the song The Black Dog by Taylor Swift, in London

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