Attractions in London
English Heritage
Some of the most intriguing historic houses in the capital belong to English Heritage. A good start for a tour of English Heritage properties would be Apsley House. Otherwise known as "No 1 London", it was the London residence of the first Duke of Wellington. Move on to the stately Kenwood House, on the edge of Hampstead Heath (part of the film Notting Hill was filmed here), and don't miss Eltham Palace, in all its art deco splendour.
Historic Royal Palaces in London
You can uncover the history and heritage of the Royal Family at London's royal palaces. Sparkle with the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London and be impressed by the ceremonial-dress collection at Kensington Palace. Enjoy a lunchtime concert at Banqueting House, and get into character with the costumed guides at Hampton Court Palace.
Leighton House
Leighton House is beautifully preserved and boasts sumptuous interiors. It was the home of the great Victorian artist Frederic, Lord Leighton. There are paintings by Leighton and his contemporaries, including works by John Everett Millais, Edward Burne-Jones and George Frederick Watts.
The National Trust
Like English Heritage, the National Trust owns a collection of remarkable historic houses in London. Fenton House, for example, is a 17th century merchant's residence with a pretty, walled garden. Osterley House boasts Neoclassical architecture, while the 18th century Carlyle's House in Chelsea is the former home of historian and philosopher Thomas Carlyle. Here he hosted guests such as George Eliot and Charles Dickens.
Spencer House
Named after John, 1st Earl Spencer – an ancestor of the late Diana, Princess of Wales – who commissioned its building in 1756, Spencer House is an impressive private palace in St James's. You can take a guided tour of the restored premises. It's a fine place to while away a day and marvel at the splendid views over Green Park..
Changing the Guard
For a display of British pomp and ceremony, watch the Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. This is where 1 member of Queen's Guards exchanges duty with the previous guard. Both guards are dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats, and the ceremony is set to music.
To catch the ultimate royal experience, stand outside Buckingham Palace at 11am. It's wise to check beforehand as the ceremony only takes place on certain days. Visit the Royal website for a full schedule.
The Ceremony of the Keys
A tradition for the past 700 years, this ceremony takes place every evening at the Tower of London. The Chief Yeoman Warder, wearing a long red tunic, Tudor bonnet and carrying a candle, locks up the main gate and delivers the keys to the Resident Governor of the Tower. Tickets are free, but need to be booked up to two months in advance by written application.
Sir John Soane's Museum
Sir John Soane was an architect and collector of curios. During his lifetime he amassed some remarkable antiquities from all four corners of the globe. These are now on display in Sir John Soane's Museum, which is his former home – and gives a real insight into the life of this extraordinary gentleman.
Kenwood House
Britain is known for its sumptuous stately homes, and Kenwood House does not disappoint. Perched on the edge of rolling Hampstead Heath, the house has stunning white stucco façades. Inside, you'll find one of the most magnificently decorated libraries in the world, as well as the Iveagh Bequest – a collection of exquisite paintings by Rembrant, Vermeer, Turner, Reynolds and Gainsborough.
Geffrye Museum
A very unique experience, the Geffrye Museum gives a fascinating insight into the domestic lives of the British middle classes from the 1600s to the present day. Explore a series of room sets, complete with furnishing and textiles from each era. The museum itself is located in 18th century almshouses, and also has a famous walled herb garden.