From venerable Westminster Abbey to the cutting-edge exhibitions of the Tate Modern art museum, from the Tower of London's imposing facades to idyllic St. James's Park, London's storied history and myriad charms are irresistible. It's all here- the great historical sites , newer destinations, such as the revolving London Eye, the shopping and business district around East London's Docklands, and the rebuilt Globe Theatre on the trendy South Bank. Special detailed features give comprehensive information on many diverse topics such as London's street markets, Regency architecture, and historic port. Also, the book offers four guided walks through many of the city's lesser-known nooks and crannies. A special Excursions chapter guides readers to some of England's most rewarding destinations, all within range of the capital. A thorough Travelwise section provides recommendations for hotels and restaurants in all price ranges and in all areas. The guide also features authentic experiences that will help you delve deeper into the culture--including where to enjoy a fine British afternoon tea and how to get half-price tickets for London's renowned West End shows. Whether you're shopping along famous Oxford Street or strolling along the quiet side streets of Chelsea, this guide has every tool you need to make your trip to America's #1 European tourist destination a memorable one. Aimed at active travelers who want authentic, enriching, cultural experiences and expert advice from a trustworthy source,National Geographic Travelersprovide ways for people to experience a place rather than just visit, and give the true feel of each destination not easily found online.

Author Biography

LOUISE NICHOLSON lived in London for 28 years. A trained art historian, she has worked in conservation, campaigning for London buildings, the art market, at the auctioneers Christie's, and, since 1985, has combined journalism with writing numerous books, eight of them about London. Her awards include the London Tourist Board's for the best book about London published in the 1980s. ALISON WRIGHT, a New York-based documentary photographer, has traveled the globe photographing endangered cultures and people. She is published in numerous National Geographic books and publications, is a recipient of the Dorothea Lange Award in Documentary Photography, and a two-time winner of the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Award.