TOP 10 attractions around the area
Big Ben
The clock tower – with its great chiming bell – is a world-famous London landmark. Treat your delegates to a guided tour of the tower (UK residents only). For tickets, contact your MP 3-6 months in advance.
Buckingham Palace
The official residence of Queen Elizabeth, Buckingham Palace is the country's most famous palace. In August and September, visit Buckingham Palace and admire the lavishly decorated State Rooms, adorned with paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer and Canaletto. You can also view the Ball Supper Room and the spectacular 29-acre gardens.
Churchill War Rooms
Learn about life in Churchill's Bunker. Visit the underground rooms where Winston Churchill directed the troops during World War II. See a collection of Churchill's personal papers, photos and even clothes. Modern technology (including a free personal Acoustiguide sound guide) bring Churchill to life, from his childhood to his 'finest hour'.
Houses of Parliament
The Palace of Westminster (also known as the Houses of Parliament) is home to the House of Commons and the House of Lords. UK residents can watch laws being made and watch debates in both Houses by visiting the public galleries when Parliament is in session. To watch Prime Minister's Question Time you need to get tickets from your MP or a Lord.
National Gallery
The National Gallery's handsome neo-classical building is home to over 2000 fine paintings, including major European masterpieces. Pop in for a spot of culture, or a pot of tea and slice of cake in the café. Don't forget to pick up some nice London souvenirs from the gift shop.
St James’s Park
One of London's prettiest parks, St James's Park is just steps from The Abbey Centre. After your conference, your delegates can stroll through the peaceful park to Buckingham Palace or towards Trafalgar Square.
Tate Britain
Tate Britain is home to the largest collection of British art from 1500 to the present. The gallery overlooks the River Thames, where you can hop aboard the Tate-to-Tate boat to its sister gallery, Tate Modern, in Bankside.
The London Eye
The London Eye is 10 this year! If you still haven’t taken a spin, now’s your chance to discover the thrilling views of London town. It’s just across Westminster Bridge from The Abbey Centre. Book a ‘Fast Track Flight’ – or spoil your delegates with a Pimm’s Flight or Champagne Flight, a private capsule or a flight combined with a sightseeing cruise of the Thames.
Trafalgar Square
A trip to London isn't complete without a stop in Trafalgar Square, home to the towering statue of Lord Nelson, Britain's great military hero. Find out what's on The Fourth Plinth, now used for controversial modern art. For more traditional tastes, head to the magnificent National Gallery, overlooking the square to see some of the finest European art ever created.
Westminster Abbey
Every year over a million visitors step inside this grand abbey, whose history spans more than 1000 years. The present church (begun by Henry III in 1245) is one of the most important Gothic buildings in Britain and home to paintings, stained glass and interesting artefacts. Many famous people have been buried in the church, including Chaucer, Charles Dickens, Sir Isaac Newton and Laurence Olivier. Tour the building or attend the daily services.
