General Information
Currency is GBP (Pound Sterling). GMT timezone. Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN) and Luton (LTN) serve the city.
What to Eat
Sunday roast, fish and chips, pie and mash, full English breakfast, afternoon tea. Borough Market is a must.
Best Time to Visit
May–September for long days and mild weather. December is magical with Christmas lights and markets.
Arts & Culture
West End shows, the Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, V&A, British Museum and the Southbank Centre.
Overview
London is the capital of England and the United Kingdom, standing on the River Thames. It has been a major settlement for two millennia. London is the world's most-visited city.
Best Time to Visit
May–September for warm weather. Christmas markets (late Nov–Dec) are magical. April is daffodil season.
Getting Around
The Tube (Underground) is the fastest way around. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment. Black cabs and buses are iconic. Santander Cycles for biking.
Local Cuisine
Full English breakfast, fish and chips, Sunday roast, pie and mash, afternoon tea at the Ritz. Borough Market and Brick Lane for street food.
Safety Tips
London is generally safe. Watch for pickpockets on the Tube and at tourist spots. The emergency number is 999 or 112.
Cultural Etiquette
Queue politely — it's sacred. Stand on the right on escalators. Tipping 10–12.5% in restaurants. 'Sorry' is used for everything.
London Map
Essence of London
Royal Heritage
Buckingham Palace, Tower of London and a thousand years of monarchy.
West End Theatre
The greatest concentration of world-class theatre anywhere on earth.
Markets & Pubs
Borough Market street food, Brick Lane spice and a pint in a proper pub.
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