Studying at a university located in central London has given me the chance to explore some of the best cultural locations the city has to offer. In one of my previous blogs, I recommended sites such as the reconstructed Shakespeare’s Globe, the innovative Tate Modern and the beloved Sherlock Holmes Museum. Today I would like to share with you five more places that are worth exploring!
1. St Paul’s Cathedral: not only is this cathedral breathtaking to look at, but it has also played an important role throughout history. It miraculously survived World War II, played host to Winston Churchill’s funeral in 1965, was where Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles married in 1981 and was the London site for the worldwide occupy protest in 2011. It is a 20 minute walk from City, University of London and is open for sightseeing Mondays to Fridays, from 08:30 to 16:00.
2. The Royal Observatory: located on a hill in Greenwich Park, overlooking the River Thames, this is one of my favourite places to visit. My favourite feature of the observatory is without a doubt the Planetarium show. Ticket prices are reasonable and it is a way to fulfil your childhood dreams of becoming an astronaut!
3. Dennis Severs’ House: a 25 minute walking distance from City, this original Georgian house has been rescued from decay to serve as a living demonstration of 18th century life. This is not just a museum but is something that you can experience like performance art. The rooms move in periods as you walk through, and provide a snapshot of life in the past – the food is real, the fire is burning, the bed is still warm. The stimulation to your senses seems so realistic, you may even forget that the house occupants are purely fictional.
4. The Ten Bells: this is another site which provides a look into the past. This pub in Spitalfields is infamous for being a favourite place of Jack the Ripper. The dim lighting and faded decor create a mysterious ambience, and the spicy chicken wings are to die for!
5. Ye Olde Mitre Tavern: this pub dates back to 1546 and it is rumoured to be a place where Queen Elizabeth I once danced. You can always expect friendly staff behind the bar and it is the perfect place to sit, drink and eat with friends. It is charming, cozy and just a 15 minute walk away from City, University of London.
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