Eros is in Piccadilly Circus. This stone statue of the god of love is poised with wings spread to herald an apt start to a romantic getaway. West End, London, is where all the entertainment and shopping action happens. Fortnum and Mason is famous for its fine cuisine and the movie stars who come here. There are over fifty theatres and movie houses here, with the famous Royal Opera house taking center stage for their years of great performances.
The sidewalks of Oxford Street are worn smooth from pedestrian traffic, for this is where all the best stores like Harrods, Marks and Spencer, Selfridges, and many others stock an endless variety of styled attire. Numerous resorts, hotels, bars, and cafes wait on thousands of tourists after they have shopped or returned from a grand performance of a Shakespeare play. Strolling and window-shopping in itself, is a great way to spend time in this active and busy part of town
2. The British Museum
British Museum
It is amazing how one can travel the globe by just stepping into the world famous British Museum. With the same high standard that is the trademark of the English people, this museum records the fascinating history of many civilizations of the world. Founded in 1753, it incorporates vast collections, such as Hans Sloane, Harleian, and Oxford. Apart from housing exhibits of the Royal families down the ages and artifacts from ancient Egypt and Japan, you will also see old Samurai legacies and Japan's robotic inventions. Whether it is Oriental or African art, Michelangelo's drawings, or coins of the world, the exhibits are exhaustive. The main section is in West End, where restaurants and cafes abound, getting something to eat afterwards is simple.
3. To the Abbey Milord!
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey in Westminster is one of the oldest landmarks in Europe and is royally connected. State functions, like coronations or funerals, are held here with due pomp and proprietary. The Abbey is a magnificent mausoleum with carvings and detail in stone, ceremoniously contributing to monarchy events. Many younger countries have modeled their pattern of governance on the British parliamentary system. Further north is Buckingham Palace, the royal residence of the Queen of England. The changing of the Guards is an event that visitors from all over the world come to witness, for it makes memorable a vacation to this wonderful city. No.10 Downing Street, close enough by tube, is yet another interesting photo opportunity.
4. Shakespeare's London
Shakespeare's Stage
The eternal tribute to love and romance started right here in South London. This is where William Shakespeare first staged the plays he wrote. Once considered a section of questionable repute and safety, Southwark and areas south of the Thames, housed nightclubs and dancing girls, along with shady elements that their trade involved. Back then, when even theatre acting was considered a vice, the beautiful 13th century Cathedral of Southwark stood here in spiritual splendor, as if in defiance to the straight-laced opinions of those times. A trip here to the Globe Theatre is a "must-do," not only to take in a play or two, but also to see the original theatre that was Shakespeare's stage.
The inside has three galleries with benches, but the main body of viewers stands in an open courtyard, just like in the days of old. The backdrop is ornately decorated and planets and stars are painted on the canopy roof of the stage. It is truly a period setting of beauty and charm!
5. Out in the country
English Countryside
It would be sinful if the picture-book beauty of the English countryside were unseen. Gracious English roses, lush, green fields with picket fences, Shetland ponies, and English hounds all paint beauty in pure perfection. Nothing is more romantic than a day spent out of the city exploring the villages, like Hampstead. The houses here are pretty and quaint; the cafes serve hot, buttered scones and tea; spires of churches beckon the churchgoers; and love falls as easily as a fine, gentle rain. Countless taverns serve beer and it is fun to engage in games like "skittles" and "pell-mell." Most cafes serve a delicious Shepherd's Pie or the traditional Steak and Kidney Pie. In close proximity is Abbey Road, made famous by the all-time popular rock band, the Beatles. It is no coincidence that a city as engaging as London should produce artists who immortalize songs of love.
6. A Gentleman's game
Lord's Cricket Grounds
Lord's Cricket Ground is a hallowed place for both watchers and players of the game of cricket. This engaging and increasingly popular sport is a native of England, although it has become a national craze in countries where the Empire rules. A morning spent watching players in white stroke the willow to send the red leather ball to the fence can be both recreational and stress busting. Other centers that encourage sport in London include the famous Wimbledon Tennis Club and Wembley Stadium, where English football fans bring down the roof as they cheer for their favorite teams. Just the togetherness and merry spirit of sportsmanship heightens the holiday mood and imparts new levels of enjoyment.
7. How Does Your Garden Grow
St James Park
What could be more romantic than giving your love a single, long stemmed rose? Take her for a walk through the wonderful gardens in London and lead her to Neverland under the watchful eye of the statue of Peter Pan at Kensington Gardens. Visit the Albert Memorial or simply stroll through the well-planned gardens. Give her the royal treatment at St. James's Park, surrounded on three sides by palaces. This is the most attractive of all London Gardens. Take in panoramic views of the city from Hampstead Heath, or go to the famous Hyde Park for a relaxing stroll.
8. Culture & All that
Shakespeare Global
If you both enjoy theatre and the literary arts, then London has your favorites laid out on a platter. Travel back in time when you visit Shakespeare's Globe Theatre on the South Bank. Catch the biggest stars as they perform at the Royal Opera House. The Open Air Theatre at Reagent's Park can weave a magical atmosphere, suitable for stolen kisses, and set the mood for a more passionate evening. SoHo Theatre, Ronnie Scott's, Wigmore Hall, Sadler's Wells...the list of performing arts venues runs long.
9. Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace
Every day, crowds of tourists gather to watch the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace. You can snap a few pictures and move on, or try the guard's patience (they are unmoved by anything, so they say) and, in the process, create a few laughs. This is one of the sights of London that you must squeeze into your itinerary.
