Dr. Samuel Johnson said, "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life, for there is in London all that life can afford." It would take a lifetime to explore every alley, court, street, and square in this city, and volumes to discuss them. Since you don't have a lifetime to spend, we've chosen the best London has to offer.
A note about admission and open hours: In the listings, children's prices generally apply to those 16 and under. To qualify for a senior discount, you must be 60 or older (for women; men must be 65 or older). Students must present a student ID to get discounts, where available. In addition to closing on bank holidays, many attractions close around Christmas and New Year's (and, in some cases, early in May), so always call ahead if you're visiting in those seasons. All museums are closed Good Friday, December 24 through 26, and New Year's Day.
Bird's-"Eye" View of London
The world's largest observation wheel, the British Airways London Eye, Millennium Jubilee Gardens (tel. 0870/5000-600; www.ba-londoneye.com), opened in 2000. It is the fourth-tallest structure in London, offering panoramic views that extend for some 40km (25 miles) if the weather's clear. Passengers are carried in 32 "pods" that make a complete revolution every half-hour. Along the way you'll see some of London's most famous landmarks from a bird's-eye view.
Built out of steel by a European consortium, it was conceived and designed by London architects Julia Barfield and David Marks, who claim inspiration from the Statue of Liberty in New York and the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Some 2 million visitors are expected to ride the Eye every year.
The Eye lies close to Westminster Bridge (you can hardly miss it). Tickets are £14 ($27) for adults, £10 ($19) for seniors and students, £6.50 ($12) for children 5 to 15. October to May daily 10am to 8pm; June to September daily 10am to 9pm. Tube: Westminster or Waterloo.
