Buckingham Palace -v- The Tower of London
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| Buckingham Palace |
Our first two contestant has fought it out in Why London is Better Than New York and defeated the Empire State Building. Can the Tower of London do it again when she's up against current reigning royal residence Buckingham Palace? It's east versus west, who will win?
The Tower of London is hours of fun. There's multiple tours, buckets of history, sits by the Thames and has a gorgeous bridge (Tower Bridge). It impresses me every time I see it, this truly is one of the greatest wonders of London if not the world. Buckingham is modern, you can see the crossing of the guards for free and you always hope that you might run into the Queen. Not to mention it was the iconic venue where we saw Willy kiss Katie on the balcony.
We love Lizzie II, but like wine, older is better.
WINNER - THE TOWER OF LONDON
The Globe Theatre -v- The West End
Shakespeare is one of the greatest playwrights and poets of all time. At the Globe Theatre, you can see a play performed like back in the day when William was directing them (a la Shakespeare in Love). The actors are outstanding and the old outdoor seating makes it an authentic experience not to be missed. Tickets are rather steep but definitely worth it, especially if you don't get the chance to visit Stratford Upon Avon.
London's West End is like a chocolate box, so many treats and most of them you love. Every corner has a theatre with a play or musical that is new and exciting, or an oldie but a goodie. Stars like Judy Dench, Orlando Bloom, John Malkovich, Sienna Miller, Woody Harrelson and Jude Law grace the stage. The theatres are lovely and are an attraction in themselves. Ice-cream during the intermission is overpriced but they are simply irresistable .
The got to do it before you die experience wins hands down though the opponent is oh so worthy.
WINNER - THE GLOBE THEATRE
Covent Garden -v- Notting Hill
Both Covent Garden and Notting Hill have wonderful markets. The buzz and atmosphere make them excellent places to visit in themselves.
Covent Garden has street performers that will keep you entertained for hours. St Paul's Church garden is one of those lovely hidden gems that make London so unique, a spot of quiet and beauty amid all the bustle. Lauduree is perfect for people watching and indulging in brunch or decadent french cake. It's a shopper's haven in a maze of quirky cobbled and modern streets.
Notting Hill has featured in How to be Frugal - Eating Out and Seeing the Real London, for the great walking tours that will show you celebrity homes and places from the rom-com Hugh and Jules collaboration. Portobello Road is famous for its antiques and the carnival. There's also the awesome Hummingbird Cafe with the best red velvet cupcakes in London. There's always a queue on the week-end and they sell out of cupcake flavours because they are so incredibly good.
It has to be the one that is a favourite for young and old.
WINNER - COVENT GARDEN
The National Gallery -v- St Paul's Cathedral
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| National Gallery |
They both contain masterpieces and will teach you a great deal. The National Gallery has free admission and have tours that are informative and interesting. There's a crypt cafe which is reasonably priced, a great place to shelter if it's winter and you want to unfreeze, as well as a free and clean toilet. Located in Trafalgar Square, a great visitor's attraction in itself, the National Gallery will deliver hours of entertainment with Monet's and Da Vinci's.
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| St Paul's beautiful from all directions |
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| Postman's Park |
St Paul's Cathedral is a wonderful experience as mentioned in Easter - Chocolate Treats, Church & the Ku Klux Klan. Paternoster Square, which surrounds St Paul's, is a piece of modern architecture in a city famous for historical greatness. The gardens and fountains are stunning. The distant rumble of buses is the only reminder that you are in busy London. On King Edward Street, there is the remnants of a small church which is now converted into a rose garden. Further along is Postman's Park, made famous by the movie Closer with Clive Owen, Natalie Portman, Jude Law and Julia Roberts.
It has plaques of every day heroes along the wall. If you are a fan of the movie, then you'll recognise Alice Ayres' plaque. Religion may be decreasing in popularity but the winner is one of the most visited attractions of the city.
WINNER - ST PAUL'S CATHEDRAL
Afternoon Tea -v- Borough Market
Afternoon tea is the quintessential English experience. They try to replicate it around the world but none come close. The Ritz is the utmost in pomp and formality, booking well in advance is absolutely necessary. The Queen goes to the Goring. Fashionistas do designer shoes and handbag cakes with Afternoon Tea at the Berkeley. It's fun, it's expensive, you can dress up, and get fat on clotted cream and scones.
Borough Market is where the celebrity chefs like Jamie Oliver shop for their fresh food. Olives and cheese galore. Ostrich burgers and chorizo rolls are world famous and the queue is both locals and tourists. It's busy and bustling. Borough is the best fresh food market in the city.
WINNER -AFTERNOON TEA
London's tourist attractions are world class and for locals and tourists trying to decide what to do, it is super challenging. Whether you want history, nature, food, shopping or culture, there are so many options. Happy sight seeing!
Find places to eat in London with Affordable Food in London. If you're planning a trip to Europe, you might like Top Ten Tips for an Unforgettable European Holiday. Or visiting Paris, one of the mega-stars of Europe, then QnA: Paris Itinerary for First Time Visitors, might be helpful. The Will and Kate specials also cover many London tourist attractions - Part 1 of the Special on Prince William and Kate Middleton's Royal Wedding, More Photoes from Prince William and Kate Middleton's London Royal Wedding and Part 2 of Special Prince William and Kate Middleton London Royal Wedding.
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