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Big Ben
This tall Gothic tower at the north east end of the Houses of Parliament is commonly known as Big Ben. The Tower is actually called the Clock Tower and its largest bell, weighing almost 14 tonnes, is called Big Ben. The tower is 316 feet tall (96m) and is the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world. The clock faces are 23 feet (7m) in diameter. Designed by Augustus Pugin, it is actually leaning slightly to the north-west – check it out!
Charing Cross Road
Book lovers will want to head straight for famous Charing Cross Road on the edge of Covent Garden along the east side of Leicester Square. The road is known for its specialty bookshops and collections of second hand books. Foyles claims to be the world’s largest bookshop and covers every type of book imaginable. Foyles is a great place to browse, and if you do spend £25 or more, Foyles will give you a free copy of “Walking Dickensian London”. Look out for the statue of Edith Cavell, a World War 1 nurse and humanitarian, at the south end of the street.
Cutty Sark
The 1869 China tea clipper ship stands on the waterfront at historic Greenwich. This magnificent speedy square-rigger captures the glorious historic days of sail when she visited every port in the world during her working life.
London Eye
This wonderful observation wheel stands on the south bank of the River Thames opposite the Houses of Parliament. As the wheel slowly rotates the 32 clear capsules give views over all of London as far as Windsor Castle 25 miles away.
Piccadilly Circus
This famous road junction is an extremely busy convergence of many major routes. Known for its neon signs and the famous ‘Eros’ statue which is correctly called the ‘Angel of Christian Charity’. This is the heart of London’s Theatreland.
Tower Bridge
This London icon is right outside the Tower of London. Enjoy stunning views of London from the pedestrian walkway. It still opens to allow ships to sail up the Thames, and once was jumped by a double decker bus when it began to rise with the bus traveling along it!
Trafalgar Square
Famous for Nelson’s Column in the center with its four huge bronze lions, this landmark is at the end of the Strand and Pall Mall. Admiralty Arch, the National Gallery and St Martin-in-the-Fields Church surround it.
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