Top Visitor Attractions in Central London – Explore the Majesty of the British Capital

Beating the heart of the British capital, Central London exhibits a great many tourist attractions most of which are historic in nature, providing a unique insight into the British capital.

Big Ben

Iconic to London, Big Ben looms over the city chiming at every hour with its characteristic bells. Despite its popularity and recognition internationally, there is a significant amount of confusion surrounding this symbolic landmark; many are of the view that Big Ben is the name given to the clock tower when in fact Big Ben is in actuality the largest bell that is contained within the tower. Since it does lie within the tower the name Big Ben has been commonly associated with the clock tower. Regardless, the clock tower too is worthy of being admired for the 4 faces that it has makes it the only clock tower of its kind in the world. This majestic clock tower and its bell and has for centuries been considered the emblem of the country. On the 31st of December each year when the clock strikes 12, the sound of Big Bens chiming is broadcast on TV and radio heralding the dawn of a new year. On the 12th strike of the bell fireworks explode in the surrounding area giving the New Year one of the grandest welcomes in the world. Every year on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, Big Ben can also be heard chiming marking the United Kingdom’s Remembrance Day. Completed in the year 1858 the tower celebrated its 150th anniversary on the 31st May, 2009 in a grand celebration.

The Houses of Parliament

As administratively important as it is, the Houses of Parliament in the United Kingdom serve significantly as a tourist attraction for it is historic, grand and passes the laws that uphold the governance of this nation. The British Houses of Parliaments are located in the Palace of Westminster and are made up of two highly prominent names; The House of Commons which is the lower house where members are elected, and the Upper House, the House of Lords, where members are appointed. Exquisitely designed, the parliament of the UK is just as interesting on the outside as it is on the inside. Unlike other tourist attractions in Central London, the Houses of Parliament cannot be so easily accessed mainly for security reasons above all else. If you are however in town during the right time of the year when proceedings are infrequent you may stand a chance to do a thorough exploration of these two exciting houses which you would have many a time witnessed on TV. To avoid disappointment though it is always best to check out the UK parliament website to ensure you can visit the place during your Central London Tour.

St Paul’s Cathedral

The most exquisite building adorning UK’s skyline, the St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most treasured spiritual assets. Flaunting majestic Baroque architecture, the current version of the Cathedral was constructed by Sir Christopher between 1675 and 1710. It has hosted a number of important events of over the centuries, including royal weddings and royal birthdays. St Paul’s Cathedral is open to sightseers from Monday to Saturday but is open for worship only on Sundays. For those interested in exploring this cathedral and other sites around Central London stay at a centrally located London luxury hotel such as Metropolitan by COMO, London.

Buckingham Palace

Yet another magnificent building in the United Kingdom, Buckingham Palace holds the heart of the nation for it is the residence of her Majesty the Queen of England. One of the most well known Royal residences, the Buckingham Palace is recognized on an international level and to this day enjoys a plethora of visitors year round. Although Buckingham Palace is very much the public face of the British Monarchy, it is also a working establishment where royal duties of all types are administered. Throughout the year the palace hosts a number of formal receptions and banquets held for visiting Heads of State from overseas. The daily Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is very popular with visitors to Central London.

Fun Facts to Know About Beijing – Exploring the East

One of the booming cities of the East, Beijing, is visited by thousands of visitors from across the planet annually for varying purposes. With the growth and advancements in the economy of China, the capital has been a magnet for attracting various travellers coming in with various interests. Beijing serviced apartments have served as a home away from home for most of those who have set foot in Beijing. A popular choice among visitors to the city for both leisure and business alike has been, Ascott Raffles City Beijing. Offering stylish luxury within the convenience of an apartment complex, the property also features modern comforts.

There are various things to do around Beijing. Some of the fun things to do in Beijing are listed below.

One of the things to do is take a bike around Beijing. There are an estimated nine million bikes around Beijing. There are several places that rent bicycles and this is a great way to explore the city, even if you get lost a few times, it all adds to the experience.

Trekking the “Wild Wall” is a not to be missed activity if in China. The closest bit to Beijing is Badaling, which is always filled with visitors. There are various guided tours offered to take you through the history of the wall.

Another not to miss thing to check out while in the Chinese capital is the Beijing acrobats. The Beijing Opera features theatrical and distinct voices as well as intricate make up. The capital’s acrobatic history goes way back in time. They feature mind blowing juggling, cycling, contortion as well as great balancing acts.

Some of the other things to do while here is to check out the Forbidden City, enjoy a traditional Chinese massage and perhaps a visit to the antique market.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Great Bell Temple – Get a closer look at China’s largest bell

The mighty capital of China draws over four million visitors each year, all eager to discover the wonders of the Far East. The centrally located Somerset Zhong Guan Cun Beijing provides an ideal base in a city which holds as many ancient attractions as it does modern ones. Accommodation options are many in this fast paced metropolis, which is home to the Forbidden City complex and Tiananmen Square. A serviced apartment in Beijing maybe just what you need to give you the comfort of home with the luxuries of a hotel.

The Great Bell Temple is located on the outskirts of Beijing. Once known as the Juéshēng Temple, it was a famous place of worship for the Qing emperors during times of drought to pray for rain. Today, the temple houses the biggest bell in China, in its Bell Museum. It stands 6.75 m tall and weighs 46.5 tonnes. The Ming Emperor Yongle ordered the bell to be cast six hundred years ago after winning a coup to take power. It carries incantations that are inscribed both inside and out. An ancient tablet which stands beside it, states that The Emperor hoped, by striking the bell to divert the public’s attention from his misdeeds. The bell has been designed to emit a clear, sweet sound when struck lightly and a deeper more resounding sound when rung purposefully. On a quiet night it can be heard as far as fifty kilometers away. The bell is now rung once a year on Luna New Year’s Eve. Its many distinct features have earned it the name ‘King of Ancient Bells’.

Today, the temple takes its name from the giant Yongle Bell, which is its main attraction. The Ancient Bell Museum, which opened in 1985, now houses thirty one bronze bells from the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties along with several bells from foreign countries.Many other historic artifacts are also on display. The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 4.30pm.

 

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid

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