Things to do in West Drayton

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most well-known parks. The park connects with Kensington Gardens and the two combined cover 630 acres (253 hectares). Together they form the centrepiece of a network of parks known as “London’s Green Lung.” Once the private hunting grounds of King Henry VIII, today the park is filled with heritage sites, monuments and events to attend all year-round.

As you approach Westminster, towering Big Ben comes into view, standing majestically on the banks of the River Thames atop the glorious Houses of Parliament. Romanticised throughout the years in various films such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary”, “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually”, Big Ben is the standing soul of this great city.

This rather unusual name derives from a tailor named Roger Baker, famous for making the frilled collars worn by men the 17th Century. Contrary to popular belief, the “circus” refers to the circular motion of traffic that trundles around the central statue of the Greek god Anteros. Today, Piccadilly Circus is an amalgamation of bright lights, lavish entertainment and bustling commuters, a scene which attracts thousands of visitors each year, day and night.

Situated just outside tower hill, the colossal gothic towers straddling the River Thames are a welcoming sight for locals and visitors alike. Soaring majestically up into the London city skyline, Tower Bridge enables around 40,000 vehicles to cross the River Thames every day.

Home to the British Royal family since 1837, Buckingham Palace has for centuries been at the forefront of true British tradition. Having hosted countless lavish banquets, foreign dignitary receptions and state degrees, this elegant palace has withstood decades of change and stands today as the symbol of Britain’s constitutional monarchy.

Constructed as a tribute to commemorate the British Victory at Trafalgar in 1805, this lively square attracts a staggering 30 million visitors each year. Famous for its iconic statue of Admiral Lord Nelson, known as Nelson’s Column, the area has for decades been a gathering point for political rallies and New Year celebrations.

London Bridge is easily one of the most famously named bridges in the world, and the site of the oldest recorded crossing of the River Thames. Walk across the landmark structure, enjoy gorgeous river views and pick up insights into the bridge’s history in its underground vaults.