2. General Info
England is part of the United Kingdom which is separated from continental Europe by the English Channel and is composed of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Located in the southern and central part of the UK, England comprises two-thirds of the island of Great Britain and also has some offshore islands such as the Isle of Wight and the Isles of Scilly.
England features important rivers like the Thames and lakes like Lake Windermere in the Lake District. The Pennines are a range of mountains known as the “backbone of England.” South of the Pennines are the English Lowlands; north are the Highlands with three national parks, the Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland, and the Peak District.
The greater London Urban Area is the largest metropolitan area in England and one of the busiest cities in the world.
3. City Guide
What to do, what to see?
London is buzzing with culture and all of its national museums are free. For art amateurs, don’t miss the
National Gallery and the
Tate Gallery. The
National History Museum is worth a visit, especially for families with children. The
British Museum presents an impressive collection of archeological finds and introduces you to some of the most important civilizations on earth.
London’s Parliament House with its famous
Big Ben is an absolute must-see. Across the Parliament is
Westminster Abbey, jewel of architecture and home to a collection of art works and monumental sculptures. From the Westminster Bridge, you’ll be able to get a breathtaking view of the Parliament and the City.
Tower Bridge,
The Tower of London home to the Crown Jewels, and close to it,
St Paul’s Cathedral are some of the city’s most well-known landmarks. But after a long day of walking and visiting London’s endless attractions, you’ll want to relax in one of the city’s many parks such as
Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, St James Park or the
Kensington Gardens.
Where to eat?
Even though England is not famous for its gastronomy, London is bursting with great places to eat. The areas around
Covent Garden and
Leicester Square boast traditional pubs where you can try the famous fish and chips with a pint of beer.
China Town, just off Piccadilly Circus offers a great choice of Asian restaurants and buffets but you’ll also find international cuisine all over town with excellent oriental flavors.
For posh dining, head to Western Central London and the neighborhoods of
Kensington and
Chelsea, Notting Hill, or
Soho where you’ll find elegant restaurants and fine cuisine. The new hot spot is around the Tower of London.
Where to shop?
London is one of the capitals of fashion and surely you can things you will not find anywhere else. For second hand treasures head to
Camden Town Market, amongst the dozens of shops, you might find the vintage dress missing from your wardrobe.
The busiest shopping street of London is without a doubt
Oxford Street. All the latest in fashion is available, from the biggest brands of clothing to the high-end shopping malls.
Carnaby Street is a great place to shop, from London creations to famous English brands, it is the place to go, and the area is also busting with bars and restaurants to end the day on a relaxing note.
The best of designer fashions can be found on
Sloan Street. For something different, try the tailors on
Saville Row and go home with a perfectly fitted garment.