London Travel Guide | Tips, Info & Weather | WhereToStay.com (2024)

London is a vibrant and bustling city, with something for everyone! From the iconic sights of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, to the fabulous shops of Oxford Street, there’s no shortage of attractions and activities to explore.

Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Westminster and explore the many historical landmarks, or take a spin on the London Eye to take in all the sights from high above the skyline. Stop by one of the many museums, galleries and attractions, or take a stroll through the city’s beautiful parks and gardens.

Be sure to sample some of the local cuisine – from traditional fish and chips to modern gastronomy, you’ll find it all in London. Take in a show at one of the many theatres, or head out to a pub to enjoy a pint of ale or cider. For a truly unique experience, take a tour on one of the city’s famous red double-decker buses!

No matter what you’re looking for, London has something for everyone. Whether you’re after sightseeing, shopping, culture or cuisine, you’ll find it all in this exciting city.

The United Kingdom, or UK, is a sovereign country located in northwestern Europe. It is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The history of the UK is a long and complex one, shaped by a variety of cultures, conflicts, and events.

The earliest known inhabitants of the British Isles were the indigenous Celtic tribes, who had established their own kingdoms by the 1st century BC. These kingdoms were eventually conquered by the Roman Empire in the 1st century AD, and for the next 400 years, the British Isles were part of the Roman Empire. During this time, the Roman influence on the region’s culture and infrastructure was significant.

In the 5th century, the Roman Empire began to decline, and in 449 AD, the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes invaded and established their own kingdoms in what is now England. This period saw the rise of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, which were eventually united under the rule of King Alfred the Great in the 9th century.

In 1066, the Norman conquest of England took place, when William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, invaded and became the first Norman king of England. This marked the beginning of the Norman period in British history, which lasted for over 300 years. During this time, the feudal system was established, and many of the iconic castles and cathedrals that still exist today were built.

In the 16th century, the Tudor dynasty came to power, and England experienced a period of great change and growth. This was a time of exploration, with famous figures such as Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh leading expeditions to the New World. It was also during this period that England broke away from the Roman Catholic Church and established the Church of England under the rule of King Henry VIII.

In the 17th century, the UK went through a series of political and social upheavals, including the English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution. This period also saw the rise of the British Empire, which became the largest empire in history, spanning continents and bringing wealth and power to the UK.

The 19th and 20th centuries were marked by industrialization and the growth of the British Empire. It was also a time of great social and political change, including the introduction of universal suffrage and the formation of the Labour Party.

Today, the UK is a leading global power, with a diverse and multicultural society. Its history has shaped its present, and the country continues to evolve and adapt to the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.

Entry Documents

• Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  
• Visa: Check UK Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  
• Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  
• Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  
• Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  
• Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  
• Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  
• COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in the UK for American citizens; the UK typically includes departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

• Drive on the left side of the road.
  
• Adhere to speed limits: 30 mph in urban areas, 60 mph on single carriageways, 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways.
  
• Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.
  
• Use child safety seats for young passengers.
  
• Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  
• Overtake on the right; keep to the left unless overtaking.
  
• Yield to traffic on your right at roundabouts.
  
• In case of an emergency, call 999 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.
  
• Follow specific rules for congestion charging zones in some cities, like London.
  
• Be aware of toll roads, bridges, and tunnels with varying payment methods.
  
• Keep left when using slip roads to enter or exit a motorway.

Local Transportation

Local transportation in the United Kingdom is efficient and widely available, with various options for getting around. From public buses and trains to taxis and ridesharing services, visitors can easily navigate their way through the country. Additionally, many cities have well-developed bike-sharing networks and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. With the option of purchasing travel passes and using contactless payment methods, transportation in the UK is convenient and accessible for all.