London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is a city steeped in history, culture, and innovation. As one of the most iconic cities in the world, London seamlessly blends its rich past with a vibrant present, making it a captivating destination for millions of visitors each year.
From its majestic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London to its bustling markets and diverse neighborhoods, London offers an endless array of experiences and stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of the arts, or a foodie in search of the next culinary delight, London has something for everyone. In this blog post, we delve into ten fun and intriguing facts that showcase the unique charm and character of this remarkable city. Join us as we uncover some lesser-known aspects of London that make it such a fascinating place to explore.
Exploring London offers endless possibilities, and for those looking to discover the city’s vibrant neighborhoods in an interactive way, Explorial provides an exciting option. With four tourgames in some of London’s most iconic areas—Shoreditch, Camden Town, Covent Garden, and Central London—Explorial blends adventure and education into a unique experience.
Shoreditch, known for its eclectic street art and hipster vibes, Camden Town with its legendary markets and music scene, Covent Garden’s charming piazzas and theaters, and the historical heart of Central London all come alive through these engaging tours. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Explorial’s tourgames offer a fun and immersive way to explore the hidden gems and famous landmarks of these diverse neighborhoods.
Here are 10 fun and intriguing facts about London:
- Home to the World’s Oldest Underground: London is home to the oldest underground railway network in the world. The London Underground, commonly known as the Tube, opened in 1863 and has been transporting millions of passengers ever since.
- The Smallest Police Station: Located in Trafalgar Square, London has the smallest police station in the UK. It was built in the 1920s and is small enough to fit just one police officer. It was used for monitoring demonstrations and keeping an eye on potential troublemakers in the area.
- The Great Fire of London: In 1666, a massive fire swept through London, destroying much of the city. Remarkably, only six people were recorded as having died, despite the extensive damage caused. This fire led to the rebuilding of the city and improvements in fire safety and urban planning.
- The Shard: The Shard is the tallest building in the UK and the sixth tallest in Europe, standing at 310 meters (1,016 feet). It offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck on the 72nd floor.
- A City of Green Spaces: London is incredibly green for a major metropolis. Approximately 40% of Greater London is made up of green spaces, including parks, gardens, and natural reserves. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Richmond Park are among the most famous.
- Unique Wildlife: Besides its parks, London is also home to some unique wildlife. For instance, there are around 10,000 foxes living in the city. There are also parakeets in places like Kensington Gardens, adding a splash of exotic color to the urban landscape.
- Languages Galore: Over 300 languages are spoken in London, making it one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the world. This diversity is reflected in the city’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene.
- Big Ben Is Not the Clock: The name “Big Ben” actually refers to the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. The tower itself was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
- The Oldest Bookstore: Hatchards, located on Piccadilly, is the oldest bookstore in London. It was established in 1797 and has a long history of serving the literary needs of the city’s residents and visitors alike.
- Museums Galore: London boasts a vast number of museums, many of which are free to enter. The British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum are just a few of the world-class institutions that call London home.
These facts highlight the rich history, cultural diversity, and unique charm of London, making it a fascinating city to explore and write about.
3-Day Itinerary around London Museums
As you must know, London has many museums and we suggest an itinerary for some of them. This itinerary ensures a balanced and enriching experience, allowing you to delve into London’s rich cultural offerings while also enjoying the city’s vibrant dining and entertainment options.
Day 1: Central London Classics
- Start your trip at The British Museum. Focus on the must-see exhibits such as the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Egyptian mummies.
- Head to Trafalgar Square and visit The National Gallery. Explore masterpieces by artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Da Vinci.
3. The National Portrait Gallery
- Adjacent to The National Gallery, this museum houses portraits of historically important and famous British people.
Dinner in Covent Garden: Covent Garden offers a variety of dining options. Enjoy dinner in this vibrant area with street performances and bustling markets.
Day 2: South Kensington’s Cultural Hub
- Start with the Natural History Museum. Don’t miss the dinosaur skeletons, the giant blue whale, and the Earthquake Simulator.
- Just next door, the Science Museum offers fascinating exhibits on space, technology, and medicine. Key highlights include the Apollo 10 command module and interactive exhibits.
3. The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)
- Finish your day at the V&A, exploring its vast collection of art and design, from fashion and textiles to sculptures and photography.
Dinner in South Kensington Relax and dine in South Kensington, which has a range of restaurants offering various cuisines.
Day 3: Diverse and Modern Museums
- Start the day at the Tate Modern on the South Bank. Explore contemporary and modern art housed in this former power station. Enjoy the panoramic views of London from the Blavatnik Building.
- 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Head to the Museum of London, where you can learn about the city’s history from prehistoric times to the present day.
- 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM Make your way to Kensington for the Design Museum, which features exhibits on contemporary design, architecture, and fashion.
Dinner in Kensington or Notting Hill: Enjoy your final evening in one of these charming neighborhoods, with numerous dining options ranging from trendy bistros to classic British pubs.
Optional Evening Activities:
- The West End Show On any of the three nights, consider catching a West End show. London’s theater district offers a variety of performances, from musicals to plays.
- London Eye Enjoy a nighttime ride on the London Eye for stunning views of the city lights.
Discovering London’s wildlife
London is home to numerous parks that offer great opportunities for seeing wildlife and enjoying a picnic. Here are some top recommendations:
1. Richmond Park
- Wildlife: Famous for its herds of wild deer (around 630 red and fallow deer roam freely), plus a variety of birds, bats, and other wildlife.
- Picnic Spots: The Isabella Plantation, a beautiful woodland garden, or by the Pen Ponds.
- Location: Richmond, TW10 5HS
2. Regent’s Park
- Wildlife: Home to the largest outdoor sports area in Central London, Regent’s Park also houses London Zoo. It’s a haven for bird watchers, with over 100 species of wild birds.
- Picnic Spots: Primrose Hill offers stunning views of the city skyline, or the areas around the boating lake.
- Location: Chester Rd, NW1 4NR
3. Hampstead Heath
- Wildlife: This vast, ancient heathland supports a variety of wildlife, including birds, frogs, and squirrels. It also has three swimming ponds and an abundance of wildflowers.
- Picnic Spots: Kenwood House gardens or Parliament Hill, which provides one of the best views of London’s skyline.
- Location: Hampstead, NW3 1BP
4. Hyde Park
- Wildlife: Besides its beautiful gardens, Hyde Park is home to numerous species of birds, including the famous pelicans by The Serpentine, and a large number of squirrels.
- Picnic Spots: The area around The Serpentine Lake or the vast meadows near the Diana Memorial Fountain.
- Location: London, W2 2UH
5. St. James’s Park
- Wildlife: Known for its pelicans, which have been a feature of the park for over 400 years. The lake is also home to many species of birds.
- Picnic Spots: Around the lake with views of Buckingham Palace, or the beautifully manicured gardens.
- Location: London, SW1A 2BJ
6. Greenwich Park
- Wildlife: Offers a mix of open parkland and formal gardens, home to deer in the Deer Park, plus a variety of birds and small mammals.
- Picnic Spots: The area near the Observatory provides panoramic views of London, or near the flower gardens.
- Location: London, SE10 8QY
7. Battersea Park
- Wildlife: Features a zoo, boating lake, and many wildlife habitats. You can spot herons, ducks, and other birds around the lake.
- Picnic Spots: By the lake, or in the quieter areas around the Peace Pagoda.
- Location: London, SW11 4NJ
8. Bushy Park
- Wildlife: Home to roaming herds of red and fallow deer, much like Richmond Park. The park also has waterways with various waterfowl and other bird species.
- Picnic Spots: Near the Diana Fountain or in the Woodland Gardens.
- Location: Hampton, TW12 2EJ
9. Kew Gardens
- Wildlife: While primarily a botanical garden, Kew Gardens is also home to various birds, insects, and small mammals. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Picnic Spots: Designated picnic areas, such as the Lawn Garden or near the Palm House.
- Location: Richmond, TW9 3AB
10. Holland Park
- Wildlife: Known for its tranquil Kyoto Garden, which has koi carp and peacocks. The park also supports various birds and small mammals.
- Picnic Spots: The open grassy areas or near the beautiful Kyoto Garden.
- Location: London, W8 6LU
These parks offer not only beautiful natural settings for wildlife watching but also picturesque spots perfect for enjoying a leisurely picnic.
London is a city that never ceases to amaze. From its rich historical tapestry and iconic landmarks to its vibrant cultural scene and lush green parks, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Whether you’re wandering through the halls of The British Museum, marveling at the natural wonders in the Natural History Museum, or admiring the art and design at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London offers a wealth of experiences that cater to all interests.
The fun facts about London add an extra layer of intrigue to this incredible city. Did you know that London is home to the world’s oldest underground railway network, or that the city boasts the smallest police station in the UK? With over 300 languages spoken and green spaces making up around 40% of the city, London is as diverse as it is expansive.
One of the best ways to explore London’s multifaceted character is through Explorial’s tourgames. With interactive adventures in Shoreditch, Camden Town, Covent Garden, and Central London, Explorial offers a unique blend of fun and education. These tourgames guide you through the hidden gems and famous landmarks of these vibrant neighborhoods, making your visit both enjoyable and enriching.
As you picnic in Richmond Park among the deer or watch the pelicans in St. James’s Park, you’ll find that London’s parks provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and wildlife watching. Each park has its own charm, offering tranquil retreats amidst the urban hustle and bustle.
In summary, whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, a wildlife watcher, or an adventurer, London promises a plethora of unforgettable experiences. With its fascinating facts, diverse attractions, and the engaging tourgames from Explorial, your visit to London will be nothing short of wonderful. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to explore one of the greatest cities in the world.
