London – a city of history and culture

London is a true open-air museum where different eras intertwine on every street. From Westminster Abbey to the contemporary Saatchi Gallery, the city inspires with its majestic architecture, world-renowned theatres, museums, and atmospheric neighborhoods that carefully preserve the spirit of the past. London reveals its unique story to every traveler – all that’s left is to take the first step toward it.

The editorial team at ELLE O‘zbekiston shares where to go in London to get to know the city and discover its deeper layers.

The British Museum 

This legendary repository of global artifacts has been forming its collection since 1753 and today includes objects from cultures across the world. Here, you can see the famous Rosetta Stone, which helped decipher Egyptian hieroglyphs, sculptures from the Parthenon, ancient mummies, and artifacts from the Maya and Babylonian civilizations. For anyone wishing to connect with world history and art, the British Museum offers a pleasant surprise: since 2001, entry to the museum has been free. For those who wish to support the museum, there is an option to leave a donation.

Photо: visitlondon.com

Tate Modern 

A cultural icon of modern art in London and one of the most visited museums in the world. Tate Modern impresses not only with its exhibits but also with the atmosphere of its industrial space: the museum is housed in a former power station on the south bank of the Thames, which enhances the overall tone of the exhibitions. Its collection includes works by masters such as Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Banksy. Here, visitors can explore bold installations, avant-garde paintings, and futuristic sculptures. From the viewing terrace, a stunning panorama of the city unfolds.

Photо: visitlondon.com

Westminster Abbey 

One of the key symbols of British history – a site of coronations and burials, and a majestic Gothic church. British monarchs have been crowned here for more than 700 years. The abbey astounds with its ornate interiors, intricate stained glass windows, and grand vaults that transport you into the authentic atmosphere of medieval England.

It remains not only a historical monument but also a functioning place of worship. Many historical figures who contributed to the development of science and the arts, not only in Britain but around the world, are buried here, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens, and others. A particular point of interest is Poets’ Corner, where great writers and playwrights, including Shakespeare, are laid to rest. 

Photо: Pexels

Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster 

Symbols of British monarchy and politics. The Palace of Westminster is the seat of Parliament. The building, designed in Gothic style, captivates with its grandeur and decorative detail. Towering beside it is the famous Elizabeth Tower, better known as Big Ben — whose iconic bell has been ringing across London since 1859. The view is especially breathtaking in the evening when the tower and palace are lit by special illumination designed for the complex.

Shakespeare’s Globe 

A meticulously reconstructed theatre from the Elizabethan era, where the great playwright’s works were first staged. The original theatre, built in 1599, was destroyed by fire just 14 years later. In 1997, a faithful reconstruction opened its doors, reviving this historical landmark. Restoration experts managed to recreate everything – the open-air stage, wooden galleries, and performances in natural daylight all immerse the audience in the London of more than four centuries ago. Here, you can see productions of “Hamlet”, “Romeo and Juliet”, and “Macbeth” in their historical format, and also explore an interactive exhibition dedicated to Shakespeare and his era. 

Harry Potter Studio Tour – Warner Bros. Studio London 

A one-of-a-kind opportunity to step into the magical world and experience the story of the extraordinary boy wizard. When J.K. Rowling wrote the Harry Potter books, she envisioned London, and now fans can explore the very part of the city that, in the books, was hidden from Muggles – non-magical people.

Located just outside the city, the studio-museum lets visitors see original sets, costumes, and props from the legendary film series. You can walk through Hogwarts’ Great Hall, touch the door to the Chamber of Secrets, peek into Dumbledore’s office, and stroll down Diagon Alley. The exhibition is constantly updated with new features, including interactive areas where guests can try out spell-casting or flying on a broomstick. This adventure is guaranteed to leave no one indifferent! 

Photо: wbstudiotour.uk

Walking tours of London

Street tours are another unusual way to discover London and visit multiple landmarks in a single trip. In addition to the classic bus tours with guides, the city offers:

1) Royal Secrets Tour

A walk through historic streets and palaces tied to the British monarchy, complete with stories about hidden symbols, secret societies, and unusual events in royal history.

2) Film Location Tour: James Bond and Sherlock Holmes

A treat for cinema lovers. The program includes:

• James Bond: secret MI6 addresses, iconic chase scenes, and bars where legendary martini moments were filmed.
• Sherlock Holmes: the house on Baker Street, the Sherlock Holmes pub, and the narrow alleys once walked by the famous detective.

3) Literary London Tour: Dickens and Shakespeare

This route takes you through neighborhoods that inspired the great writers. Participants will visit Charles Dickens’ house, where he wrote some of his finest works, stop by old taverns where he used to write, and learn about life in Victorian London. The tour then continues to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, where the atmosphere of the playwright’s time has been vividly restored. Guests are transported into the worlds described in “Oliver Twist” and “Romeo and Juliet”.