Question:  Jason H. asks: I am traveling to London, England this summer. We already booked our flights and made hotel reservations. We are staying in Trafalgar Square. What are the most highly recommended things to do in London? We will be there for one week.

Answer:  Wayne Northey, frequent traveler and president of the West Virginia Region of AAA East Central, says, "A week in London is the perfect opportunity for exploring any areas of interest: history; theater; shopping; museums; natural beauty; pomp and ceremony.  Several bus companies offer tickets that provide guided tours while allowing passengers to “hop off, hop on” from many conveniently located stops.  The London underground,  or “Tube”, is another way to maneuver this city of over seven million people quickly and safely. 

As in any large metropolis, be aware of your belongings; don’t be the victim of a pick-pocket.  As you travel about London, don’t forget they drive on the left; always look to your RIGHT as you begin crossing the streets. St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are certainly “must sees” as both exhibit breathtaking beauty and awe; they also provide an excellent venue in which to worship with services held regularly.  Gift shops provide an excellent selection of items for family and friends back home. A summertime visit affords an excellent chance to witness the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace.  Although this ceremony occurs daily at 11:30 a.m. through July, be sure to arrive an hour or so early to fully appreciate the festive atmosphere.   Complete the day by spending time in London’s beautifully maintained parks (St. James, Green and Hyde Parks are all within a comfortable walk) ; grab an ice cream or drink from a nearby vendor and enjoy “people-watching” from one of the numerous park benches.   While in this area be sure to grab an American-style meal at the original Hard Rock Café, located near the intersection of Park Lane and Piccadilly.

The National Gallery is close to Trafalgar Square and well worth visiting, particularly if the weather discourages outdoor sight-seeing.  Trips to the British Museum and the Tower of London will also provide history lessons that reach well back in time. Don’t leave London without frequenting at least one of its famous pubs.  One of the beauties of visiting Great Britain is they speak our language (or something close to it) and there is nothing more enjoyable than having a meal of fish and chips and a cold drink while listening to the local dialects being spoken.  Your visit to London will be filled with many memories but none will mean more than the relaxing time you spend with its people."