London is well known for being one of the oldest cities in EUrope, and it’s easy to glean, what with the incredible diversity of architecture in London, alongside the rich and layered history in the city. With roots in the Roman era and a founding year of 50 AD, London has grown through the ages and all through the practical and revitalising benefits of the river it is built around. The River Thames brings transport, water and trade to the city, and so over the years it has perpetuated the growth of London which in turn has developed its hospitality potential. Enter the Premier Club Rewards, our scheme for great value luxury accommodation in the city. As just one of the many repercussions of London’s long life and amassing of wealth, the hotel scene is like no other.
If you’re a budding historian or merely want to see the centuries old sites fo the city, then you needn’t look far; many are stationed near to our hotels and like with many of London’s attractions, are free to visit. Below are some of the best historic sites you can find in the city.
Trafalgar Square
Centrally located, Trafalgar Square holds many historic sites and monuments. With Nelson’s Column towering over the cityscape and the historic National Gallery and Portrait Gallery lining the square, you’ll find that in general Trafalgar Square is the perfect glimpse into the 19th century.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Founded on the site of its predecessor, which dates back to 604 AD, St Paul’s Cathedral was originally consecrated in the 14th century before being redeveloped in the late 17th century after a fire caused it damage. With historic figures such as Winston Churchill having had their funerals held here, St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most recognisable sites of the cityscape.
Hampton Court Palace
Based just half an hour train journey out of London’s Waterloo, Hampton Court Palace was founded in 1515 by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. This palace saw some of the most notable figures of the Tudor era walk its halls, and its history deepens into the architectural realm due to rebuilding leading to the palaces two distinct styles – the Tudor and the Baroque.
Tower of London
The Tower of London dates back to the late 11th century, after the invasion of William the Conqueror. Based just off of Tower Bridge, the Tower has been used for many different purposes, including as a menagerie for exotic animals and as a prison for the likes of the Kray Twins. Nowadays, you can find the crown jewels kept here, and a glimpse into the traditions of the Royal Guard.
Kew Palace
If you are staying in West London’s Park Grand Hotel Kensington, then you may be interested in taking a journey even deeper into the historic West London borough of Chiswick to explore the magnificent Kew Palace. Here you will find a beautiful range of the surviving estates, including the Dutch House amidst the beautiful botanic vitality of Kew Gardens.
Temple of Mithras
This ancient Roman structure is located near Bank and Mansion House, and is one of the oldest surviving Roman relics in the city. This once Mithras worshipping temple became a Bacchus worshipping temple in the 4th century, and was only discovered by Londoners after the devastation left by the London Blitz in World War 2. For ancient history buffs staying at the Grand Royale London Hyde Park, this historic and centrally located gem of a museum is an atmospheric way to spend an afternoon.
