Attractions in London, UK

The Tate Britain:

The Tate Britain is also known as Tate Gallery and houses the works of J. M. W. Turner, Moore, Blake and many others. The BP walk through at Tate Britain offers you the collections from the beginning to its end. The Turner Collection, Henry Moore Rooms and William Blake rooms are open every day. This is one of the free attractions in London and is open from 10.00am to 6.00pm daily. Manton entrance on Atterbury Street, Millbank entrance, North entrance on John Islip Street and Clore Gallery entrance on Millbank are the four entrances to this art gallery. Cloakroom, baby changing facilities, lifts, cafes, shops and much more are available at Tate Britain.

The Tate Modern:

The Tate Modern is an art gallery in London and is the most visited art gallery in the world with a high number of visitors every year. It houses the British Art collection from 1500 to present day and International modern and contemporary art from 1900 until date. It is one of the free attractions and is open from 10:00am to 6:00pm daily and until 10:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Abstraction and the Sublime, William Eggleston, Around Abstract Art and lots more are the highlights of this world famous art gallery. There are two entrances to The Tate Modern - Main entrance on Holland Street and River entrance on Queen's Street. Restaurants, cafes, Espresso bars and shops are also available at this art gallery.

The Tower Bridge:

The Tower Bridge is an iconic symbol of London and is one of the top attractions. Tower Bridge Exhibition is the best way to explore this attraction. The east walkway houses the photographic exhibition that features the great bridges in the world and the west walkway features 60 iconic illustrations, Miroslav Sasek's classic children's book and lots more. You can perceive a panoramic view of London from Tower Bridge's walkway.

Trafalgar Square:

Trafalgar Square is a public area and a tourist attraction in the borough of the city of Westminster. Nelson's column is in the centre of Trafalgar Square with four lion statues at its base and this area is used for community gatherings, celebrations and political events. The Nelson's column is 170 ft in height and is dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson, who died at the battle of Trafalgar Square. Charing Cross, Embankment and Leicester Square are the nearest underground stations in this area and frequent bus services are also available.

Just Chauffeur London offers comfortable taxi service for airport transfers, attractions, hotels and other post codes in London. For more information: http://www.justchauffeur.co.uk

Article Source: Laura_Albini

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Exploring Coshieville and Surrounding Area in Perthshire, Scotland

Coshieville is a small hamlet situated a few miles away from Aberfeldy towards the villages of Kenmore and the stunning, incredibly picturesque, Glen Lyon in Highland Perthshire. It is a real hidden gem of a location for your holiday in Scotland. If you are a keen road cyclist you will be spoiled for choice for routes. Those who enjoy climbing on the bike and perhaps have an eye on one day winning(!) the famous polka-dot jersey at the Tour de France will be impressed with the terrain and availability of some categorised climbs close by such as at the Schiehallion road as well as the climb from Glen Lyon to Lawers via the Ben Lawers visitor centre road. If your legs and lungs can handle the exertion you will be rewarded with stunning views as well as exciting descents. The roads are very quiet in this part of the world but do be aware that cars do use these routes, especially during the summer months, so keep safe when you cycle and be ready to use the brakes if required!

For those who prefer a more relaxed journey on two wheels there are also many options. Cycle towards Aberfeldy or Grandtully and explore the many fantastic tea rooms for a well earned cuppa or soup. The Watermill bookshop in Aberfeldy is a fascinating place to spend a few hours with a fascinating collection of books as well as an excellent art gallery that features local and contemporary exhibitions. After purchasing a book sit down and relax and enjoy delicious home-made soups, salads, sandwiches and home-baking. Alternatively you may wish to satisfy your sweet tooth, in which case a trip to the Highland Chocolatier at Grandtully is a must. Here you will meet Iain Burnett, the chocolatier who has garnered quite a reputation for the tantalising truffles he produces in this corner of Perthshire. of course, it should be noted that Coshieville features on the route of the fantastic Etape Caledonia cycling sportive, thus the roads have been recognised as excellent for cycling and more and more businesses are catering to those touring and in need of quality sustenance to keep the spirits up! Soups at Highland Safaris in the village of Dull and at Castle Menzies are also well worth a try.

Walkers and runners will also have an abundance of trails and hills to explore. Munro baggers should not leave without completing the ascent of Ben Lawers and Schiehallion, both real features of the surrounding landscape. There are also many walks in the area including at Drummond Hill and along the River Tay.

Loch Tay hosts an array of water sports in the summer and is also easily accessible from Coshieville. Horse riding is also available. Thus there are plenty of activities for you and the family to enjoy whilst also being in a place where you can relax and completely unwind, far away from the hustle and bustle of your daily life.

There are a number of excellent accommodation options in Highland Perthshire including a cosy Bed and Breakfast in Coshieville.

Article Source: Marius_Bezuidenhout

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Christmas and New Year in Torquay

It's that stage of the year once more when we begin considering Christmas and the New Year. some of us prefer to reside at home for the festivities however a growing number wish to escape and have others do all the hard work for them.

This year there has never been a better time to enjoy Christmas in Torquay, don't simply think about South Devon as a summer destination, there is lots happening throughout the year and Christmas on the English Riviera is no different. Here in Torquay most of the hotels manage to make a novel atmosphere that offers you that Christmas feeling the minute you pull onto their drive, as you will be able to see from the gorgeous fairy lights the decorate all the hotels up and down the town.

Christmas in Torquay has always been special and this year will be no different. At Babbacombe Model Village they will have their renowned Winter Wonderland running from December 14th 2013 to January 5th 2014 with its wonderful realistic snow effects covering much of the gardens. Creating a truly gorgeous and magical winter landscape complete with picture-postcard thatched villages coated in snow. From dusk, which many consider the best time to visit, thousands upon thousands of lights twinkle and sparkle turning this wonderland into a magical festive world.

As well as this Kents Cavern are providing you with the chance to meet good old Santa in his underground grotto. You will even be given the chance where you can be part of the Christmas Gang on an underground fun filled journey in search of Santa. They even have an incredible pantomime show around the decorated caverns with interactive "pie-making" and live "present-wrapping" to help boost your Christmas fun.

If you fancy a family trip to the theatre the choice is endless throughout the festive season, here in Torquay the Princess Theatre is hosting several acts, shows and pantomimes over the Christmas period, as well as That'll Be The Day Christmas Special, Jack and the Beanstalk, Royal Marines Christmas Spectacular, and many, many more.

So if you are feeling like leaving all the hard work to somebody else this year over the busy Christmas and the New Year period why not take an enjoying break in Torquay, where you are more than welcome to visit some of the great hotels available within the Torquay area, where they are sure to have the festive period covered the minute you walk through the door.

Join Lincombe hall for a great place to stay during the festive season, a beautiful place to stay in South Devon Lincombe Hall Hotel is an award winning hotel located a few minutes' walk from the Torquay harbor.

Article Source: Sadie_Hawkins

HOTELS IN TORQUAY



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Attractions For Tourist In Marylebone

Marylebone, barely one by two kilometers in size, is home to a sufficient number of tourist attractions to keep one busy for several days. Only a few will be highlighted here, but there are many others to delight just about everyone's preference of tourist attractions.

At the northwest corner of Marylebone, just outside the traditional limits of the village proper, but still well worth the effort, is Little Venice, a system of waterways reminiscent of the famous Italian city on the Adriatic Sea. It can in no wise be mistaken for the Italian city by the architecture, but it is a delightful series of waterways first coined "Little Venice" by poet, Robert Browning. At the union of Regents Canal and the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union Canal there is a small island on which Browning once planted willows. On the south shore of Browning's Pond is the boat launch of Little Venice. At the north side of the pond is the Puppet Theatre Barge, offering marionette shows. Shops and restaurants line the canals.

In the heart of Marylebone in Manchester Square is the gathering of 25 galleries comprising the Wallace Collection in Hertford House, which was once the home of The Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace. Collected there are eighteenth and nineteenth century paintings, sculpture, furniture, porcelain, silver and goldsmith work and armoury.

Just east a few blocks from the Wallace Collection is Wigmore Hall, the best venue for classical chamber and soloist music in London. The building is a beautiful marble and alabaster structure containing an intimate concert hall more accommodating to this style of live music performance. There are numerous events, including lectures, scheduled. Occasionally, there may be a couple of events scheduled on a single day.

Northeast of Marylebone in Regents Park is the Zoological Society of London (ZSL London Zoo), a world landmark zoo featuring over 12,000 animals in its collection. These animals receive some of the best care available for captive animals. Visitors to the zoo also have some of the best opportunities to meet and greet animals in enclosures closely matching their natural habitats. Interaction with zoo-keepers and some of the animals represents some of the best time spent at the zoo. Plan ahead to see what activities are scheduled throughout the year, such as the annual animal weigh-in, when virtually every animal in the zoo is weighed to be certain their diet is maintaining them properly.

Of course, Marylebone, as a living, working village, is full of shops and restaurants not necessarily geared to tourism but which are an integral part of the living, working village available to tourists to take a slice of life in Marylebone. There are over 120 restaurants in Marylebone, offering meals from around the world. There are more shops for personal apparel, gifts, memorabilia, home decor, etc.

For the tourist wanting to experience a small village atmosphere in the heart of greater London, Marylebone is one of the best examples of such a functioning village.

To learn more about Marylebone, you can visit the following website: Tourist attractions in Marylebone

Article Source: Robert_Fogarty

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The Shard

The Shard is the tallest building in the European Union and is the second tallest free- standing structure in the United Kingdom after the 330 metre high concrete transmitting station at Emley Moor. This 95 storey skyscraper in London forms a part of London Bridge Quarter development and is also known as the Shard of Glass, Shard London Bridge and London Bridge Tower.

It is 310 metres high and has 72 livable floors: Offices - 2nd to the 28th floor, Restaurants - 31st to 33rd floor, Shangri - La Hotel - 34th to 52nd floor, Residences - 53rd to 65th floor and The View - 68th to 72nd floor.

The Shard was developed by Sellar Property and was designed by the Italian architect Rinzo Piano. This building was constructed on the site of Southwark towers, which was demolished in 2009. The Shard is constructed in a surface area of 56,000 square metres with 11,000 panes of glass. The glass panes reflect the sunlight and the sky, such that this building gets a different appearance based on the weather and season.

Hotel and Restaurants:

The Shangri La Hotel is from the 34th to 52nd floor and is a Hong Kong based 5-star hotel. This hotel has 200 luxurious rooms, a gym, spa, fitness centre and other facilities. Rainer Becker's Oblix, Hutong and Aquashard are the restaurants available in this London skyscraper.

'The view from the Shard' is located between the 68th and 72nd floor at an altitude of 245 metres. This is the best place to perceive a stunning and magnificent view of the beauty of London and the long flowing River Thames. You will see St Paul's cathedral, London bridge, The London Eye, The Gherkin, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Olympic Stadium, London City Airport, Dover and more from the observation desk.

The Shard's construction began in 2009 and the steel structure was topped out on 30th March 2012. It was inaugurated by Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabber Al Thani, the prime Minister of Qatar on 5th July 2012. The laser light shows consisting of 12 lasers and 30 searchlights illuminated the Shard during the inauguration ceremony. The building attained completion on November 2012 and 'The View of The Shard' was opened to the public from 1st February 2013.

London Bridge station is the nearest station and has Bond street to the west, the city to the north and Canary Wharf to the east. The Eurostar terminal at St Pancras is 15 minutes away from the Shard and provides international connectivity.

Exclusive Airports provides affordable minicab service in London and specialise to and from Heathrow transfers.

Article Source: David_Marwick

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7 Great Landmarks To Visit in London

In the United Kingdom's capital city there is no shortage of things to do and see. Out of the land of the Britain's comes thousands of years of history, innovation, fairy tales, and entertainment that has influenced much of the world for centuries. London can be both a gritty urban landscape as well as the fabled metropolis of kings and queens. Here is a look at some of the best stops to make on your next trip to London.

Westminster Abbey

An iconic site in London with a long, and sometimes bloody history, the Westminster Abbey is an important stop in London. This medieval church is the burial site of many of history's kings, queens, and other historic figures, including Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, and the famous poet Geoffrey Chaucer. It has seen the coronation of kings and was the place where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married in 2011. As with most iconic sites, the crowds flock to the abbey so arrive early and prepared to wait in line.

Buckingham Palace

Royalty and Britain go hand in hand so a stop off at the home of the Windsor family is essential to any trip to London. In the summer you can view the stately, royal rooms and see how the King and Queen of England live. The ornate carvings and gilded moldings give you a glimpse of the opulence of the Royal family living quarters. You can view the Throne room or the Royal Ballroom and view the history that these rooms have held for many generations of lords and ladies. Be sure to not miss the Changing of the Guard that is one of the most popular shows to catch as the old and new guards transfer positions in a fascinating procession.

St. James Palace and Clarence House

If you are still in the mood to soak up some Royalty, a visit to both the St. James Palace and the Clarence House will ease you appetite. The Clarence House was once the home of the Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mothers for many years and is now currently the home of the Prince of Wales, Camilla, and Prince Harry. There home is only available for tours at certain times to be sure to purchase tickets in advance.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

While the actual theatre that showcased Shakespeare's legendary plays burned down in 1613, this theatre is a fantastic replica. Shakespeare's plays continue to permeate movies, plays, theatre, literature, and even vernacular hundreds of years after his death. Visiting the place where history was so eloquently re-enacted for the masses is certainly a must-see. The theatre was reconstructed to be as authentic as possible, even using original building techniques and materials. You can even still view plays here as well. Just be aware that the theatre is open-air, meaning there is no roof so should a rain shower come through, you will want to be prepared.

Tower of London

This tower has been a part of the iconic landscape of the London for centuries. The halls here are filled with history and the stories of the princes and princesses who resided here. You can explore the dark side of history here as well as many were put to death or killed on the cobblestones of the Tower of London. There is the Medieval Palace and the Bloody Tower where prisoners and even princes were killed. The tower remains a very popular tourist attraction so you should expect to encounter crowds so purchasing tickets in advance will save you time in line. You can even jewels the royal Crown Jewels here as well. Henry VIII in the nearby Tower Green beheaded Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard as well. Nearly every hallway and staircase seems to have a story so a trip here will give you an afternoon of haunting fun.

London Zoo

Whether you plan on bringing your children with you to London or not, a stop off at the London Zoo is a great way to spend the afternoon. First opened in 1828, the zoo has some great attractions including a completely self-sustaining, contained ecosystem that includes plants, animals, and insects. There is a one of kind gorilla museum as well as a chance to view rainforest creatures in a nighttime environment. There is also fantastic penguin and big cat enclosures amongst many others. A worthwhile stop off to relax a little with some wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.

Big Ben

The great bell, clock tower, known as the Elizabeth Tower, is a prominent symbol of the London cityscape. The palace is the location of the United Kingdom's parliament and is generally not open to tourist though it is still visited by millions every year looking for a perfect photo backdrop.

Bond Street

If you are just looking for a casual stroll take the tube (the London subway) to Bond Street. This street has world-class shopping opportunities and was the place where Roosevelt sat with Churchill during WWII. You'll find the famous auction house Sotheby's as well as many other high-end shopping boutiques. Nearby are great art galleries and shops as well.

If you are interested in traveling to London please visit http://www.destinationeuropeonline.com/blog/?page_id=355

Article Source: Christopher_Walters

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A Visit to Torquay Is a Must This July!

With the holiday season now in full swing, Torquay should be top of your agenda for a break away this summer. A traditional seaside holiday is really popular with the old and young alike, with so many attractions and events to hold your interest.

The weather should be at its very best with the sun high in the sky during the day so you can enjoy warm, lazy days on the beach and some balmy evenings whilst sitting with a glass of wine and watching the world go by on Torquay's promenade.

Something to look out for is the evening illuminations at nearby Babbacombe Model Village and new for 2013 is a four metre replica of the recently constructed London building 'The Shard', aptly named after its iconic shape and which is lit up at the model village from dusk. Families of all ages will really enjoy this trip around a land in miniature, full of humorous displays from popular events of the past and present. It is easily accessible either by car or a regular bus service from Torquay.

Another new event for this July, which is sure to become a regular entry on the calendar, is the Family Fun Dog Show at Occombe Farm, Preston on 7th July. Just because you are on holiday doesn't mean you can't enter your dog, so go on, give the local canines a run for their money, with many prizes available including a fancy dress category for dogs and their owners!

So this year, why not take your trusted friend with you on your break away to Torquay and book your summer holiday in a self catering apartment that accepts well behaved dogs. Leaving your family pet behind is often one of the reasons people give for not going away, but luckily Barramore holiday apartments in Torquay have ground floor apartments that are ideal for dogs and even offer specific advice on nearby dog friendly eating places and attractions. So with a selection of quality self-catering accommodation in Chelston that accepts pets there is no reason why you can't all enjoy a holiday together.

And it's not just the adults that get to enjoy all the fun. Summer camp-style activities for youngsters can be booked on a daily or weekly basis during the school holiday period at nearby Newton Abbot. Activities include art, sports, outdoor pursuits and music, which are both educational, adventurous and fun. These courses also give Mum and Dad a few hours to enjoy quality time together.

If spectator sport is more in line with your personal plans for your holiday on the English Riviera, then take yourself off to Torre Abbey Meadow on 21st July 2013 when the Pedal Car Grand Prix takes place, a gruelling two hour endurance race with the team members relying purely on pedal power. Arts and craft stalls, live music, belly dancing and a licensed bar complete this thrilling afternoon out and also raises a considerable amount for charity. This event is also within easy walking distance of the Barramore holiday apartments.

For a great place to stay this summer near the English Riviera, take a look at Barramore holiday apartments a wonderful selection of self catering holiday apartments in the beautiful South Devon area.

Article Source: Sadie_Hawkins

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A Visit to Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is a public place and is a major tourist attraction on central part of London. This place has a number of designer boutiques and other places of interest. It is also known as the borough of the city of Westminster.

The Trafalgar Square was built in 1806 to mark the victory of Lord Horatio against the forces of Napoleon in the battle of Trafalgar. There is a statue of Lord Horatio which is situated in the middle of the town and it is one of the most iconic images of London. More than just a tourist place, there are a number of popular buildings and government offices that are situated here.

There are a number of events and royal celebrations that took place here. This place was bustling with tourists from all over the world during the time of London Olympics that happened in 2012. Besides, this special events and days like St. Patrick's Day, Chinese New Year, Christmas and New Year Eve is celebrated with great pomp and show. The month of December makes the best time to visit this place.

Places of Interest

There are a number of places in this square which you can see and explore. Most of the places are situated to each in close proximity and can be reached on foot.

a. Nelson's Column: This is the prime attraction of Trafalgar Square. There is a tall statue of Lord Nelson who defeated the armies of Napoleon in 1806 and was then buried in the St. Paul's Cathedral. At the base of the statue stand four huge lions made of bronze which signify the strength, courage, motivation and ferocity. These lions where later added to the statue in 1818.

b. National Gallery: The National Gallery is known for the finest collection of artifacts across Europe. This place is known to house a number of paintings and sculptures that date back to the late 10th century. According to an official estimate, there are about 2600 paintings that have been kept here. Some of them have been made some of the best painters such as Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci and many more.

c. St. Martin's in the Field: This is another major attraction of Trafalgar Square. This church is situated in the north Eastern part of the city, on close proximity to National Gallery. The church was built during the first half of the 18th century. It is known for its architecture and served as the model for many churches that were made in United States later on.

There are a number of online travel portals that offer you Cheap Train Tickets. You can know more about Trains to Manchester from here.

Article Source: Mark_McLaine