Guest post by Ahmet Öcal
Boasting a history spanning 2,000 years, London stands as one of the world’s most storied cities. Yet, it possesses unique qualities that distinguish it from other global metropolises, making it a coveted destination for tourists.
In this article, learn what it is that makes London so special and attracts people from all corners of the globe. If you’re thinking of visiting London or making the move to the city, you can find both short and long-term rentals at an accommodation platform like renthero.co.uk. It’s an easy-to-use platform that lists properties across the English capital, from modern apartments to historic terraced homes. If you would like some more accommodation options you could have a look through Broke in London’s accommodation page. Once you find a comfortable stay, you can immerse yourself in everything that makes London so unique.
It’s packed with architectural icons
Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben are just three London landmarks that come to mind but the city is filled with architectural icons to discover. It’s home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Tower of London and the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, as well as historic buildings that have been given a new lease of life, such as the Tate Modern.
When it comes to contemporary marvels, don’t miss The Shard, The Gherkin and the Barbican Centre, which is renowned for its Brutalist design. Other architectural landmarks to tick off your list include the Lloyd’s Building, St. Pancras Station and the Sir Christopher Wren-designed St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Pic taken from pexels.com
It’s incredibly multicultural
Home to almost 10 million people, London is one of Europe’s most populous cities and among its most multicultural. People from a huge diversity of ethnic backgrounds call the English capital “home” and more than 300 languages are spoken in its streets. No matter where you are visiting from, it’s likely that you’ll hear your own language spoken at least once during your stay.
London’s multiculturalism also means you can find cuisines from all corners of the globe and temples representing many different faiths. It’s this embrace of cultures and religions that makes the city so special. Being able to find a sense of belonging in their communities is also one of the reasons why many residents are drawn to London in the first place.
Photo by Saveurs Secretes – Pic taken from Pexels
There are markets galore
Who doesn’t love fossicking at a market for vintage treasures or picking up fresh produce directly from the grower. In London, you can do just that at one of countless markets held across the city. Whether you’re a foodie in search of the next “big thing” or want to shop for locally-made crafts, you can find all of that and more.
Borough Market – Photo by Laura Lugaresi on Unsplash
Among London’s most popular markets are the food-focused Borough Market (next to the London Bridge) and bustling Brick Lane, as well as Brixton Village and Market Row. One of London’s most popular attractions is Camden Market, which is open 7 days a week, while Sunday sees Columbia Road ignite with its weekly Flower Market. Other markets to keep an eye out for include the Covent Garden Market, the Greenwich Market and the Maltby Street Market.
There’s no shortage of pubs
At the most recent count, there were more than 3,500 pubs scattered across London, making it home to the highest density of watering holes in the world. The city’s pubs come in all shapes and sizes, with some relatively modern and others more than 400 years old. Not only are they a place to wet your whistle at the end of the day but a wonderful opportunity to socialise with people from all walks of life.
Among London’s most famous pubs is The Prospect of Whitby in the Docklands, which has been the site of a watering hole since 1520. Kensington’s Churchill Arms is renowned for its floral-adorned exterior while the George Inn (near Borough Market) is a 17th-century gem now owned by the National Trust. Descendants of the “Mayflower” pioneers should head to The Mayflower where Captain Christopher Jones drank before his voyage to the Americas.
It’s got the Underground
Known locally as “The Tube”, the Underground extends not only across central London but also into Buckinghamshire, Essex and Hertfordshire. It boasts more than 250 stations and carries more than five million passengers a day to work, recreational activities and sightseeing spots. Riding the Underground is an iconic London experience and part of what makes the city so special.
The Underground was established in the 1860s as the Metropolitan Railway and was the world’s first underground passenger transport system to be built. Despite its name, a lot of the Underground is, in fact, above ground. It takes its nickname (“The Tube”) from the circular tunnels through which the rapid transit system’s trains travel.
London is a city like no other
The above only scratches the surface of what makes London so special and doesn’t touch on the city’s world-class museums, sprawling green spaces and distinct neighbourhoods. To experience everything the city has to offer, there really is no other option but to visit!
