HistoryTower of London
A fortress almost 950 years old where the Crown Jewels are kept, guarded by the Beefeaters.
Cheap flights to London
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London at a glance
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Airports
- Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), Luton (LTN), London City (LCY), Southend (SEN)
- Search code
LON- Money
- Pound sterling (GBP)
Discover London
Royal palaces, free world-class museums, markets and pubs that are centuries old. London mixes 2,000 years of history with one of the most diverse food scenes in the world.
What it's called
- Londiniumits Roman name, founded around 47 AD
- The Big Smokefrom its smoky industrial past
- The Square Milethe old City of London at its heart
Things to do in London
History
LandmarkWestminster and Big Ben
The Houses of Parliament, the famous clock tower and Westminster Abbey, where monarchs are crowned.
CultureBritish Museum
Free entry to the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies and treasures from every continent.
ViewsTower Bridge and the South Bank
Walk the river past the London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe and Tate Modern.
FoodCamden and Borough markets
Street food, vintage stalls and live music, and one of London's oldest food markets.
LandmarkBuckingham Palace
Watch the Changing of the Guard, then walk through St James's Park.
About the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is small enough to cross by train in a day, yet packs in castles, green hills, seaside towns and some of the world's most famous cities.
- CapitalLondon
- MoneyPound sterling (GBP)
- LanguageEnglish
Economy
One of the world's big economies, led by finance, services, universities, creative industries and tourism. London is a global money hub, and British music, TV and football are watched all over the planet.
Culture
The home of Shakespeare, the Beatles and the Premier League. The pub is every town's living room, afternoon tea is a real ritual, and royal traditions like the Changing of the Guard still draw crowds.
Places to visit
- Edinburgha castle on an old volcano and the August festivals
- BathRoman baths and honey-colored streets
- Stonehengea stone circle about 5,000 years old
- Scottish Highlandslochs, glens and whisky distilleries
- Lake Districtlakes, fells and village pubs
- Liverpoolthe city of the Beatles
Why the United Kingdom is worth it for you
- Free museumsThe British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern and many more cost nothing to enter.
- Easy to get aroundTrains and buses reach almost every town, so you don't need a car.
- English-speakingNo language barrier for English speakers.
- Gateway to EuropeThe Eurostar reaches Paris from London in about two and a half hours.
Travel more of the United Kingdom
Places worth adding to your trip, from London or on another visit.
HistoryEdinburgh, Scotland
A castle on a volcanic rock above the Royal Mile; August brings the Fringe festival.
HistoryStonehenge and Bath
A 5,000-year-old stone circle, and Roman baths in an elegant Georgian city.
NatureThe Cotswolds
Honey-stone villages and rolling hills, about two hours west of London.
NatureScottish Highlands
Lochs, castles and mountains; look for Nessie on Loch Ness.
NatureLake District
England's highest peaks and lakes that inspired poets.
CultureOxford and Cambridge
Centuries-old university colleges, libraries and punting on the river.
Eat like a local
- Fish and chipsBattered cod with thick chips and mushy peas.
- Sunday roastRoast meat, Yorkshire pudding and gravy in a pub.
- Afternoon teaScones, clotted cream and little sandwiches.
The story of London
The Romans built Londinium on the River Thames almost 2,000 years ago. The city survived the Great Fire of 1666 and the Blitz in World War II, and grew into the capital of an empire. Today more than 300 languages are spoken on its streets.
The United Kingdom through history
- 43 AD
The Romans invade Britain and soon found Londinium.
- 1066
William the Conqueror wins the Battle of Hastings.
- 1215
The Magna Carta limits the power of the king.
- 1707
England and Scotland unite as Great Britain.
- 1760s
The Industrial Revolution begins in Britain.
- 1940
London stands firm through the Blitz in World War II.
Good to know
- Best time to go
- May to September for long days; December for Christmas markets. Pack a light rain jacket any time.
- Getting around
- The Underground ('the Tube') and red buses cover the city; tap a bank card to pay.
- Language
- English
Ready to see London for yourself?
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Flights to London
Tips for flying to London
- London has 6 airports. Searching the code LON covers all of them, so you see every option in one list.
- No fixed dates? Leave them blank: the search opens with your route filled in so you can compare nearby days.
- Compare the total price with bags. Some of the lowest fares leave out checked luggage or seat selection.
- You book with the airline or travel agency directly, so check their name and change rules before you pay.
When you land in London
Places to stay, things to do and getting around, from trusted travel brands.
Questions about London
Which airports serve London?
Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), Luton (LTN), London City (LCY), Southend (SEN). Search code: LON.
What currency is used in London?
Pound sterling (GBP).
How do I find cheap flights to London?
Enter where you're flying from in the search above. JetSetCheap compares fares from hundreds of airlines and travel agencies, then you book directly with the seller.