London Travel Tips
London History
Its name is derived from the Celtic word Londinios, which means “The Place of the Bold One”. It was the Romans who were responsible for the city we know today as London. The strategic location of the city allowed the Romans easy access to Europe, and the River Thames provided ample water supply. They invaded Britain in AD 43, and soon afterward founded the city of Londinium.
Tower of London
In 1078, when William I (William the Conqueror) took control of London, He quickly began to build a stronghold to guard London – the Tower of London. The Tower has been used as a castle and a palace, a zoo and a weapons store, a mint (where coins are made) and a prison. At present time, the Tower of London has been opened to the public and includes an exhibition showcasing the Crown Jewels. There is also an annual art installation of a sea of ceramic poppies, which started as honouring the 100-year anniversary of Britain’s first involvement in World War I.
As Gold, London Tested Through The Great Fire
Probably one of the most well-known events in London’s dramatic history, the fire destroyed just under 70 percent of the city’s buildings, including the original St Paul’s Cathedral. Many richer inhabitants chose to relocate to the West End and aristocratic residences close to the royal court at St James’ Palace. Somewhat wisely, all new buildings were made of brick, not wood, leading to the popular impression today of the UK being a red-brick country.
London Travel Tips
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More about London
The climate is influenced by the ocean, and is therefore cool, humid and rainy, with Atlantic fronts passing one after the other throughout the year, and bringing a variable weather, with cloudiness, rains and showers, which alternate, at least in spring and summer, with a few hours of sunshine. The best time to visit London is the summer, or more generally from mid-May to mid-September: temperatures are generally good for outdoor activities, although it’s better to bring an umbrella and a sweatshirt or sweater for the evening or for cool days. In summer you can hope to find a period of good weather, with warm days, in which the maximum temperature is above 25 °C (77 °F), or can even approach 30 °C (86 °F), and in which you can remove the outer layers of clothing, stroll in the numerous parks of the city and even sunbathe.
Thinking of visiting London?
Enjoy these nuggets of London history and travel tips, but of course, the best tip of all is to contact me before you plan your trip to London. As a travel expert, I can help you to maximize time and save money by doing things in the right order, at the right time, and on the right day.
Enjoy my London tips and be sure to call or email me to help you plan your visit to London.
