1. Watch a classical concert at Banqueting House
Banqueting House was designed by Inigo Jones as the perfect place for one of King Charles I’s theatrical parties in 17th-century London. These days, Banqueting House is still used for functions and private parties but it’s open to the public as well. You’ll love the painted ceiling by Rubens, his only work that remains in the location for which it was designed. It is an ideal setting to enjoy the sophistication of a classical concert.
Whitehall, SW1A 2ER (Westminster Underground)
www.hrp.org.uk/BanquetingHouse
2. Visit the Churchill War Rooms
Deep beneath the bustle of London lie the original Cabinet War Rooms – today part of the Churchill War Rooms – which sheltered Britain’s wartime Government during the Blitz. Immerse yourself in this fascinating piece of history by discovering the underground maze of historic rooms that once buzzed with round-the-clock planning and plotting, strategies and secrets. Uncover the man behind the image at the Churchill Museum. It is the first major museum in the world solely dedicated to Sir Winston Churchill, using cutting-edge technology and multimedia displays to bring his story to life.
Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London, SW1A 2AQ (Westminster Underground)
www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms
3. Visit HMS Belfast
Visit HMS Belfast to discover what life was like for those who lived and worked on board this last remaining warship of its kind. Nine decks of amazing seafaring history provide plenty of opportunities to explore. Venture into the captain’s domain on the Compass Platform, see the shells lying beneath the ship’s waterline, and hear sailors’ stories in the Life at Sea exhibition. You can also find out what far-flung places HMS Belfast visited during her years in active service and learn more about her adventures at sea.
Morgan’s Lane, Tooley Street, London, SE1 2JH (London Bridge Underground)
www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast
4. Visit Westminster Abbey
Kings, queens, statesmen and soldiers; poets, priests, heroes and villains – the Abbey is a must-see living pageant of British history. Every year Westminster Abbey welcomes over one million visitors who want to explore this wonderful 700-year-old building which is the coronation church of England. Thousands more flock to the Abbey for worship at daily services.
Parliament Square, London, SW1P 3PA
www.westminster-abbey.org
5. Tour the Royal Albert Hall
The Royal Albert Hall is one of the world’s most famous stages. Opened by Queen Victoria in 1871, the hall hosts over 360 events each year, including classical music, jazz, world music, circus, rock, pop, opera, dance, comedy, tennis, dinners, award ceremonies and the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance. The hall offers daytime tours, a shop, lunchtime jazz and world music in the Café Consort and a free exhibition series as well as a wide range of events for breaking artists in the Elgar Room.
Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP (South Kensington Underground)
www.royalalberthall.com
