London Tourist Attractions

Have you ever watched BBC news and seen the Members of Parliament banging on that podium? You can see it on the tour of the Houses of Parliament.

One of the most iconic things to see is Big Ben.... but you won't really SEE Big Ben. That is the nickname for the Great Bell, as it's officially known. The smaller bells chime "Westminster Quarters" on the quarter hours... a little tune you're probably familiar with. Big Ben chimes the hour.

Castle Fortress, Palace and prison. Find where Henry the VIII did away with a couple of his wives. See the crown jewels. The Beefeaters who give the tours make history come alive. Learn why they love the ravens in the Tower of London.

Look at the London Eye -- the giant ferris wheel across from Big Ben. You can be sealed in one of its gondolas and take an hour or so to slowly rise over the city for a sky-high view, but it's expensive. You'll get a bigger dose of English reality if you walk the streets and find a nice little place to eat.... and for less money at that!

Another palace that calls to most tourists is Buckingham Palace. You can watch the changing of the guard for free, but buy a ticket when the Queen isn't in residence, and you can tour the palace. Who wouldn't want to see where the Queen lives?