Thanks to the culturally-driven British government, a greater part of London's nationally-run museums and art galleries are free for all visitors. One must-see museum is the world-famous British Museum, which offers a comprehensive view of human history and culture from prehistoric to modern times. Debuting in 1753, the museum has accumulated over 7 million objects, making it the museum with the largest collection in the world. Exhibits in the museum include works from all continents and fully study the growth of humanity from various cultures. Numerous tours are available for various age groups and interests, with paid tours ranging from one to three hours, and free tours lasting 30 to 45 minutes. For visitors who prefer to view the works at their own pace, there are electronic multimedia guides available in ten languages which offer insight on over 200 objects in 62 galleries throughout the museum. The British Museum has no admission fee and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with late closing on Thursdays and Fridays.
The British Museum
Great Russell Street
London WC1B, United Kingdom
+44 (0) 20 7323 8299
britishmuseum.org
One of the big attractions in London for tourists and locals alike is the fascinating Change the Guard Ceremony in front of the Buckingham Palace. The ceremony displays the ritual conducted when the guards outside of the queen's palace exchange duties. The ceremony is complete with traditional uniform (red tunics and bearskin hats) and customary music. During the summer, it takes place daily at 11:30 a.m.; during the winter, the ceremony takes place every other day at 11:30 a.m. The ceremony is approximately 45 minutes long, yet it is suggested that observers arrive early due to the large crowds at the event.
Change the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Road / The Mall
London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
(+44) (0) 20 7766 7300
changing-the-guard.com
All of London's royal parks are well kept and full of cultural monuments, quaint cafes, and breath-taking sculpture and fountains. Possibly one of the most interesting of the royal parks, however, is Hyde Park. Covering 350 acres, Hyde Park is known for its beautiful greenery perfect for bicycle rides and picnics, as well as the distinctive sights and experiences offered within the park. The Speaker's Corner, for instance, is a square in the northeast tip of the park where, every Sunday, freedom of speech rules all and just about anybody can preach their beliefs to any person willing to listen. The Serpentine, a river separating the park into two sections, offers rowing and pedal boats at the Boat House. The Diana Fountain, located on the east side of the Serpentine River, reflects the life and character of Diana, Princess of Wales. The park is open from 5 a.m. till midnight all year round.
Hyde Park
London W2 2UH, United Kingdom
+44 (0) 20 7298 2000
royalparks.org.uk
