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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
London offers free admission to 238 cultural sights and boasts a total of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Westminster Palace, the Tower of London, Maritime Greenwich as well as the Royal Botanic Gardens, also known as the Kew Gardens.
Westminster Palace and Big Ben
The British Parliament, composed of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, debates in Westminster Palace. It is located on the north bank of the Thames. Westminster Hall dates back to 1097 and is the oldest part of the palace still in place. One of the main tourist attractions of the Westminster Palace is the clock tower that houses the Big Ben bell. The mammoth complex contains over a thousand rooms where important state ceremonies are held.
The Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of London’s oldest buildings. Its history has been linked to the British Royal Family for about a thousand years. In the 17th century, James I was the last king that was to live in the Tower. Over the years, several unhappy members of the royal family died here. This is the case for e.g. the Little Princes and deplorable Anne Boleyn who was executed by order of her husband, King Henry VIII. One of the main tourist attractions of the Tower are the British Crown Jewels that are kept here since the 14th century.
The London Eye
The British Airways London Eye is an absolute must when visiting the British capital. During the 30-minute ride, the world’s largest observation wheel offers its passengers a spectacular view of more than 55 famous London landmarks.
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