London...first visit
 

I will be in London the week after Christmas. What are some things not to be missed? Any travels outside of the city to the country side?

Jill, <BR>This is probably one of the most covered subjects onthis forum (day trips outside London that is). One thing I would just like to say is that it gets very dark, very early in London around Christmas time! Seems like it was dark by 4:30 and did not get light until about 8:30 in the a.m. This may not be a big deal to you but it can cut down on sightseeing time. As for day trips, depends on your interests. Hampton Court is marvelous and only a 30 minute ride from Waterloo Station. Bath is about 90 min. from Paddington Sta. You can go to York in 2 hours from Kings Cross. Cambridge & Oxford are also less than an hour. Canterbury is about 50 min. from Charing Cross Sta. Salisbury is nice town with lovely cathedral (so is Winchester) and about 90 min. from London. The choices are endless really, all depends on your interests.

Jill, I forgot to say that the weather may not totally cooperate, it can be cold, rainy (or bright and clear, London is always questionable) so you may want to have some indoor sites planned, i.e. British Museum, Victoria & Albert, Museum of London, etc. if that interests you. Of course shopping at Harrod's, along Oxford/Bond St. etc. can keep you out of the rain/cold if that occurs also. If this is your first trip you might want to take a 1/2 day sightseeing trip, it will cover the highlights and you can decide where you want to return and focus your time. I would not miss the Tower tho - but it can be cold along the Thames in the winter. I don't think you can go wrong with anything you do in London, there is so much to see, we've been many times and still find places to go to.

Hi ... <BR> <BR>Try the London Eye ... great views of London <BR> <BR>Mark

<BR>A fantastic place to visit outside London is Rye in East Sussex, a fascinating ancient town just steeped in history. It's probably a couple of hours on the train. <BR> <BR>Since you will be here in the middle of winter (prepare yourself!!) and it gets dark really early, why not try a 'Ghost Walk' or 'Jack the Ripper Walk' in London - details of these organised walks can be found from the tourist offices or pick up a copy of Time Out at any newsagent. <BR> <BR>Have fun!

Hi jill <BR>If you'd like to see my London file, please email me, it includes day trips.My favorites are Bath, Oxford, Windsor Castle, and York. <BR>I don't know how long your trip will be and if you've been in London before, <BR>but there are so m any things to do! <BR>Another nighttime activity: <BR>the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London. Short, fascinating, even a little creepy in a safe sort of way as the guards lock up Her Majesty's Tower. <BR>Whatever you do, just bring warm clothes for layering, an umbrella, gloves, etc. <BR>