Designed by Sir Horace Jones and opened in 1894, Tower Bridge is one of London's most recognizable landmarks. This famous monument is built on the River Thames and overlooks the iconic Tower of London. Due to the volume of river traffic in the 19th Century, the Tower Bridge was designed to have twin bascules that could be raised. One of the most fascinating features of the bridge is the Victorian-era engine room that houses the coal-powered motors used to raise the bridge lifts. The two towers, the North Tower and South Tower, are open to visitors. There is a glass-covered enclosed walkway that runs between the two that offers a bird's-eye view of vibrant city life.
Known as both the London Eye or the Millennium Wheel, this huge 137-meter (450-foot) Ferris wheel on the South Bank gives a fabulous bird's eye view of London. The spectacular views from the top stretch as far as 40 kilometers (25 miles) in every direction on a clear day to include views of Windsor. Its inception at the turn of the 21st Century conferred upon it the title of 'the Millennium Wheel', symbolic of the progress made thus far and the promise of a glorious future. The London Eye has since come to be an icon of the city skyline, renowned as the world's tallest cantilevered observation wheel and one of the city's highest observation points. Each of the glass-encased pods of the London Eye can transport up to 25 passengers around its 120-meter(394-foot) diameter at a leisurely pace, a circuit that takes close to 30 minutes to complete. For the duration of the ride, the city and its many attractions lie sprawled all around for a glimpse of London's girth in a single sweep.
There is something about photography that has fascinated people since its inception. Exhibiting some incredible shots, Atlas will enthrall anyone who appreciates the serene beauty of still images. The gallery's immense catalog includes artists from around the world, and spans works from the beginnings of photography as an art form, all the way up to limited edition prints from contemporary artists. Check out their online gallery to take a peek at their wonderful collection.
Take a glimpse into the life of World War II Prime Minister Winston Churchill (1874-1965), arguably the greatest British statesman of the 20th Century, through this unique and historical collection. Within the Cabinet War Rooms, the museum captures the public and private life and achievements of the British leader and icon. Separated into five chapters, take a glimpse at the young Winston Churchill and his life as a politician, statesman and war leader. The museum has over 150 original objects including Churchill's baby rattle and his trench periscope used on the Western Front. There are also numerous documents, photographs, and audiovisual and interactive displays. For anyone interested in the history of the 20th Century, this exhibit is a must.
The Photographers' Gallery was the first independent gallery in Britain to be solely devoted to photography. It hosts multiple temporary exhibitions, which focus on high-quality international contemporary photography. A visit here is always full of surprises, as no two exhibitions are alike. There's also an excellent bookshop, which stocks over 5000 titles and runs a worldwide mail order service. There is no admission fee, however some exhibitions may be charged.
Journey to the clouds where an ethereal vista of the metropolis awaits you, and see the Ben, Eye, Bridge, Palace and Thames in a way like never before. Soaring above London, The View from The Shard is the highest viewing deck in the city, offering 360-degree panoramic views from a spellbinding height of 244 meters (800 feet). Opened to the public in early 2013, this iconic attraction above The Shard is based on three levels- 68, 69 and 72. Supersonic elevators fitted with multimedia take you to 'The View' in merely ear-popping 30 seconds. From the topmost level on floor 72, the spectacular view of the shimmering city unravels and if you look above then you will see the shards of glass melting into the heavens. This one is truly an experience you can't afford to miss, so book your tickets ahead.
As with most of the churches in the area, this church was rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666, but the site has had a religious history since 1100 A.D. During the reconstruction, the financier Sir Christopher Wren intended for the church to be an open space, full of light. Since its consecration, the church has been alternatively named "Wren's Lantern." For those looking to sight see, the church is quite close to The Mansion House and The Guildhall as well as The Millennium Bridge.
Located in the heart of the city, The Colomb Art Gallery has on display contemporary art by famed artists of the 20th Century. Paintings by John Haskins, Peter Wardle and Edward Hersey have at some point or the other graced the walls at the gallery.This art gallery also sells paintings of various well known British and international artists. Galleries like the Colomb have ensured that the neighborhood remains a popular destination for art lovers and tourists alike.
If you are fascinated with art from the far east, Eskenazi is a great place to check out in London. The gallery showcases a variety of Chinese and Japanese sculptures, pottery and other artifacts. Some of striking collections include Chinese Buddhist figures, Ancient Chinese bronzes, Chinese Ceramics, Sculptures from the Shang dynasty to the Ming dynasty. There are various exhibitions held at Eskenazi as well. Some of the previously held ones were Landscape paintings by Li Huayi, Song Chinese Ceramics from the 10th to the 13th century. A must-visit for art lovers who would like a glimpse of oriental art through the ages. The gallery is open on Saturdays only when exhibitions are being hosted.
Named after its famous owner, Francesca Galloway features Indian, Islamic, European, Chinese and Central Asian art and textiles. Some of the historical art pieces found here are "Leaf from Persian translation of Dioscorides' De Materia Medica", "Illustration to the Razmnama: The conflict between Arjuna and Babhruvahana". Ivory sculptures, bronze caskets, betel nut container in the shape of a sitar are other exquisite pieces. Some of the textiles featured at the gallery are, Macao Embroidery, Phoenix, Lotus and Peony from the Ming Dynasty, Buddhist design textiles from the Jin Dynasty. A must-visit for those who enjoy cross-cultural art.
Cornhill is named after one of the three ancient hills, it is now one of the main streets in the City . It houses two churches which were both designed by Sir Christopher Wren, they are St. Michael's, Cornhill and St. Peter upon Cornhill which is supposed to be on the oldest Christianized site in the area. Also of interest is the Standard which became London's first mechanically pumped public water supply. This is near its junction with Leadenhall Street.
Established in 1998, the Red Gate Gallery in London's Brixton neighborhood has come a long way in promoting visual arts in the area. Supporting established and emerging artists with equal fervor, the exhibitions tend to reflect diverse themes. Their spacious and versatile gallery can be hired for meetings, workshops and social events, while one can also replenish oneself at the in-house cafe which serves sumptuous light snacks and drinks. Check their website for an idea of the kind of events and art work you can expect here.