National Geographic Traveler: London

From venerable Westminster Abbey to the cutting-edge exhibitions of the Tate Modern art museum, from the Tower of London's imposing facades guarding the Thames to idyllic St. James's Park, London's storied history and myriad charms make it easy to understand why the city is the number one tourist destination for Americans visiting Europe. Illustrated with more than 120 vivid photographs and nearly 20 detailed, full-color maps, National Geographic Traveler: London, 3rd Edition brings you everything you need to know to plan a trip to this most alluring of cities.
 
Award-winning author Louise Nicholson, a 25-year-resident of England's capital city, guides you step-by-step through the fascinating cityscape that is 21st-century London. Starting with a detailed introduction to the city's history and culture, including an in-depth look at London's rich literary and theatrical heritage, Nicholson then explores in detail every corner of this captivating metropolis. From the great historical sites—St. Paul's Cathedral, the Inns of Court, the British Museum, Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting House, the Victoria & Albert Museum, and Buckingham Palace, among many—to newer destinations, such as the revolving London Eye along the Thames, the shopping and business district around East London's Docklands, and the rebuilt Globe Theatre on the trendy South Bank, it's all here. Special detailed features give comprehensive information on many diverse topics such as London's street markets, Regency architecture, and historic port. In additional, the book offers four guided walks through many of the city's lesser-known nooks and crannys. A special Excursions chapter guides readers to some of England's most rewarding destinations, all within range of the capital, including Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford, and Windsor. A thorough Travelwise section provides recommendations for hotels and restaurants in all price ranges and in all areas. A series of sidebars gives you information on authentic experiences that will help you delve deeper into the culture—including where to get a fine British high tea, how to get half-price tickets for London's renowned West End shows, and when you can try your artist's hand at duplicating the old masters at the National Gallery.
 
Whether you're shopping along famous Oxford Street, strolling along the quiet side streets of Chelsea, or gazing at the famous portraits of storybook kings and queens in the National Portrait Gallery, National Geographic Traveler: London has every tool you need to make your trip a memorable one.